Figurine - Heksenwaag - Silver

A Dutch silver miniature figurine depicting a witch’s scales. Centrally is a balance with a woman and weights. Next to it stand two male weighmasters. The witch’s balance was used during witch persecutions in Europe to weigh people accused of witchcraft. It was believed that witches were lighter than ordinary people so they could fly on a broom. The accused was publicly weighed. If the weight matched a predetermined standard, the person was acquitted. However, if the weight was lower, it was assumed witchcraft. Subsequently the stake was applied. The figurine is stamped with a passant lion, Minerva head, maker’s mark: Zaanlandse Zilversmederij N.V. and year letter 'Q' for 1976. Good condition, no damage. Length: 5.4 cm x width: 3.3 cm x height: 6.4 cm. Weight: 38 g. Registered shipping.

Estimate:$168.55

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