Object Name: Kiddush cup
Subject: Goblets and various cups
Hebrew inscription mentioning the donor of this Kiddush cup, Michael, son of Rabbi I. Speyer; a verse from Exodus [28:29]; and the date of the donation
Several biblical scenes decorated epulent golden cup: Jacob’s struggle with the angel, Jacob’s dream, and the binding of Isaac. The goblet was used for Kiddush (a ritual sanctification of the Sabbath over wine) in the home of the Speyer a wealthy family in the Jewish ghetto of Frankfurt. It belonged to Michael Isaac Speyer, one of the leaders of the local Jewish community, who bequeathed it to the synagogue upon his death in 1764.
Lit.: Beauty and Sanctity: the Israel Museum at 40. A Series of Exhibitions Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, Zalmona, Yigal, 2006
Lit.: 3x50@50: IMJ Collection Highlights, The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 2015
