Sabbath oil lamp ("kandil"). Morocco, [ca. 1939].
Sheet brass, cut, punched, and engraved; coins; rivets.
Rectangular back plate with large circular decoration reminiscent of rose window, filling most of surface. Moroccan coin at center. Hebrew inscription in upper part, above "rose window": "In Honor of the Sabbath." Inscription flanked by two additional coins (one minted in 1939) riveted to back plate. Oil pan also decorated, and positioned atop cylinder enclosing additional cylinder, in turn secured to drip pan.
Height: 15.5 cm. Width: 16 cm. Good condition.
Reference: Jewish Life in Morocco, p. 45.

In Morocco, it was customary to light Shabbat and holiday candles at home using a ritual lamp known as a "kandil." After a woman's death, on the first anniversary of her passing, the lamps would be donated to the synagogue with an engraved dedication bearing the woman's name. Maintenance of the candles and wicks was the responsibility of the family.