RARE Antique Mother of Pearl Folding Shabbat Challah Knife Karlsbad Judaica For Sale
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RARE Antique Mother of Pearl Folding Shabbat Challah Knife Karlsbad Judaica:
$895.00
This is an exceptional and rare early 20th-century (c. 1910–1920s) folding Shabbat/Challah pocket knife produced as a souvenir for Jewish visitors and vacationers in Karlsbad (now Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic).
Unlike more common period examples crafted with carved bone or early synthetic celluloid, this premium piece features thick, genuine natural mother-of-pearl (nacre) handle scales mounted over heavy German silver (nickel silver) / brass liners and bolsters.
The handle scale on the obverse is finely micro-engraved with two distinct decorative panels:
Left Panel: A detailed architectural depiction of the Second Temple (Beit HaMikdash) in Jerusalem.
Right Panel: Hand-engraved and filled Hebrew lettering reading:
Bottom line: קארלסבאד (Karlsbad)
Top line: לכבוד שבת (L'Kavod Shabbat / "In Honor of the Sabbath")
The reverse side features smooth, iridescent mother-of-pearl scales with natural organic iridescence. The single carbon steel blade folds securely into the handle frame. Folding Challah knives were historically favored by Jewish travelers, scholars, and spa-goers visiting the grand thermal resorts of Bohemia, providing a portable ritual utensil that could be safely carried in a coat pocket while traveling across Central Europe.
Material Natural Mother-of-Pearl (Nacre), Carbon Steel, German Silver (Nickel Silver) / Brass Liners.
Dimensions & Weight
Folded Length: 5.5 inches
Open Length: 9.5 inches
Weight: 6.3 oz
Origin & Age
Origin: Karlsbad, Bohemia / Czechia (Central Europe)
Age: Early 20th Century (Circa 1910–1925)
Condition Report
Overall: Very Good antique condition considering age and usage.
Handle / Pearl: Mother-of-pearl scales are complete, firm, and securely pinned. Surface shows rich iridescence with light natural age-related internal stress lines near pin insertion points, typical of authentic organic nacre. Engravings remain crisp and highly legible.
Blade: Original single carbon-steel blade shows honest age-appropriate dark patina, light surface oxidation, and minor spotting. The cutting edge shows light wear without deep pitting or major nicks. Opens and closes as designed.
Authenticity Assessment This piece exhibits all classic hallmarks of authentic early 20th-century Bohemian Judaica production. Authentic period markers include hand-engraved Hebricized Orthography for "Karlsbad" (קארלסבאד) utilizing Yiddish/Hebrew phonetics typical of Central European Jewish craftsmanship prior to WWII. The construction utilizes brass internal liners with hand-peened flush pins and natural mother-of-pearl, showing organic iridescence and minor thickness variations characteristic of hand-milled shell rather than modern synthetic imitations. Furthermore, the blade exhibits natural, non-uniform carbon steel oxidation consistent with a 100-year-old utensil.
Bibliographic / Museum Reference
Book Title: Jewish Tradition in Art: The Feuchtwanger Collection of Judaica
Author: Isaiah Shachar
Reference Note: Item No. 67 (Sabbath Knife / Folding Pocket Knife with Hebrew Inscription, Bohemia/Karlsbad, early 20th Century).
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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.
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