Hanukkah Lamp

This typical Russian bench lamp features an ornate, Rococo-revival style swirl-framed back-piece with two rampant lions supporting a central seven-branched menorah. It is topped by a crowned double-headed eagle. The double-headed eagle - the symbol of the Russian Empire -- is a common heraldic symbol, which, historically, was associated with the Holy Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire. The heads traditionally refer to the dual religious and secular sovereignty of the Emperor as well as rule over East and West.