Silver Presentation Wine Cup for Hyman Gratz's 70th Birthday

Silver presentation wine cup inscribed "TO HYMAN GRATZ, ESQ. ON HIS 70TH BIRTHDAY THE TRUSTEES OF THE ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS DEC. 22, 1846." Manufactured by Jones, Ball, and Poor of Boston. This piece was presented to Hyman Gratz, a prominent Jewish merchant and philanthropist in Philadelphia, on his 70th birthday by the trustees of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. The inscription highlights Gratz's significant contributions to both the Jewish community and the city of Philadelphia. Gratz served as treasurer of the Academy from 1841 to 1857 and also held the position of treasurer of Congregation Mickveh Israel from 1824 to 1856. He was involved in the founding of the first Jewish Publication Society of America and was a vocal advocate against the persecution of Jews in Damascus. In 1856, he established a college for the education of Jews in Philadelphia (Gratz College).

Associated People/Businesses

• GRATZ, HYMAN

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Jews -- United States -- 19th century
• Philanthropy -- Pennsylvania -- Philadelphia
• Silverwork -- United States -- 19th century
• Presentation pieces
• Gratz, Hyman, 1776-1857

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box 18