Figural Menorah with Moses and Jewish Historical Figures, c. 1940s. Substantial and expressive figural menorah carved in wood, featuring Moses at center, holding the Tablets of the Law, flanked by groups of Jewish men, women, and children representing the continuity of Jewish history and tradition across generations. The figures are rendered in a highly sculptural, almost architectural format, with recessed vertical openings behind the flanking groups, giving the composition depth and rhythm.
The menorah combines narrative symbolism with functional Judaica design, with candle apertures integrated along the upper horizontal sections. The central Moses figure stands forward of the composition, emphasizing leadership and transmission of law, while the surrounding figures suggest communal life, learning, and survival. The surface shows a dark, intentionally aged finish with visible carving texture and expressive modeling, consistent with mid-20th-century Judaica sculpture.
Mounted on a rectangular wooden base. Underside and rear show hand-carved construction details and period mounting. Overall appearance and style are consistent with 1940s Jewish artistic production, likely created as a commemorative or symbolic object rather than purely domestic ritual ware.
Condition: Good overall, with expected wear, surface variation, and age-related patina. Minor abrasions and handling wear consistent with period and material. Structurally sound.
A striking and evocative piece of mid-century Judaica sculpture, blending ritual form with historical narrative and strong visual presence.
Estimated Value $200 - 300
Judaica
