European Set of Silver Bodkin Holders

European Set of Silver Bodkin Holders, ca. 18th-19th Century AD. This is a set of two silver bodkin holders, each with a wax seal. The holders are used to store bodkins, a tool for threading ribbons or cords. They are distinct in their symbolism and origins:

First Holder:

Weight: 20g, Length: 3.5 inches.

Seal: Features the Hebrew name "Michlah, daughter of Naftali Hirsch," indicating Ashkenazic Jewish lineage. The wax seal includes a scorpion with a crown-like design, possibly referring to the month of Cheshvan (Scorpio) in the Jewish zodiac.

The seal is likely Dutch, as suggested by the heraldic tradition.

Second Holder:

Weight: 24.1g, Length: 3.25 inches.

Seal: Depicts a coat of arms with a demi-fleur-de-lis and an eagle, which could help identify its place of origin.

This holder is simpler in design compared to the first, though both may have been part of the same set, possibly acquired at different times.

These holders likely date from the late 18th to early 19th century, around the time of the Industrial Revolution. Despite their differences in decoration, they complement each other in function and origin. L. 3 1/4" and 3 1/2"..