Shabbat Candlestick
Dates back to the late 19th century
Unknown make, probably Russian
Copper alloy (brass or bronze)
This Shabbat candlestick belonged to my great-great grandmother, who brought it to North America from Western Imperial Russia in 1905. It is narrow, heavy, gold-colored, and covered in melted wax. The candlestick, which has an accompanying duplicate, is lit at the commencement of Sabbath, the Jewish day of rest. The lighting symbolizes holiness, spirituality, dignity, and honor. As my family no longer observes Shabbat, the candlesticks are now ornamental rather than religious objects. Nonetheless, the candlesticks are still important objects to me and my family that have helped me connect with my Jewish heritage and rediscover my family history.
