Michael Aram Pomegranate Dish/Sculpture in Rose Gold/Copper Tone Plated Metal
Decorative Object / Hollowware · Michael Aram, an American-born designer of Armenian descent. Aram is renowned for his nature-inspired metalwork and artisanal home goods, establishing his workshop in India in 1989.
Pattern: Pomegranate Collection, introduced in the late 1990s and remains one of the designer's most iconic and best-selling signature patterns.
Type
Decorative Object / Hollowware
Maker
Michael Aram, an American-born designer of Armenian descent. Aram is renowned for his nature-inspired metalwork and artisanal home goods, establishing his workshop in India in 1989.
Material
Likely Rose Gold plated or Copper plated over a base of stainless steel or zinc alloy. It is not solid sterling silver; the '925' mark is absent in favor of a brand seal. The warm color indicates a non-silver precious metal plating.
Dimensions
Standard 'Small' size: approximately 3.5 to 4 inches in diameter and height. Weight is moderate, approximately 200-300 grams, suggesting a solid metal base rather than a hollow shell.
Description
A stunning representative of Michael Aram’s Pomegranate collection, this sculpture captures the fruit's mythical allure. The piece is characterized by its soft, irregular shape and lustrous rose-gold finish, accented by a circular textured 'seed' window. It is a fusion of nature-inspired sculpture and modern luxury.
Key Features
Organic, non-symmetrical silhouette; prominent calyx crown; signature Michael Aram circular logo stamp; textured 'seed' detail; warm metallic plating.
Material & Composition
Likely Rose Gold plated or Copper plated over a base of stainless steel or zinc alloy. It is not solid sterling silver; the '925' mark is absent in favor of a brand seal. The warm color indicates a non-silver precious metal plating.
Finish & Decoration
High-polished mirror finish with an oxidized 'seeds' stamp. The decoration is organic and biomorphic, featuring a stylized crown (calyx) and a circular textured area representing the seeds inside the fruit.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item features a circular Michael Aram maker's mark stamped into the body. This mark typically includes the designer's name and sometimes a year or specific collection branding. No fineness marks (like 925) are visible, confirming it is plated/decorative metal.
Construction Details
Cast metal construction using the lost-wax process or sand casting, which allows for the irregular, organic 'hand-molded' texture. The crown and body are integrated during the casting process.
Functional Features
Primarily decorative; can function as a paperweight, a small catch-all (if the top is removable, though this model appears to be the solid sculptural version), or a symbolic religious piece.
Handle & Grip Details
The 'crown' of the pomegranate serves as a grip point for the lid (if applicable) or a decorative finial. Hand-finished edges provide a tactile, artisanal feel.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays 'perfectly imperfect' craftsmanship. The surface has deliberate waves and undulations that mimic the natural fruit, showing a high level of hand-finishing after the initial casting.
Authentication Indicators
The recessed circular maker's mark is the primary indicator of authenticity. The weight and unique 'dimpled' surface texture are consistent with authentic Michael Aram production rather than mass-market copies.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in New York, manufactured in Michael Aram’s dedicated workshop in New Delhi, India, utilizing traditional Indian metalworking techniques.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th - Early 21st Century). The design reflects the 'Post-Modern Craft' movement, blending industrial production with organic, artisanal aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-present. The specific warm rose-gold/copper tone suggests a more recent addition to the collection, as earlier pieces were primarily silver-plate or brass.
Cultural Significance
A bridge between Eastern craft traditions and Western luxury markets. The pomegranate form holds deep meaning in Jewish (Rosh Hashanah), Christian, and Mediterranean traditions representing the 613 commandments and eternal life.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows light hairline scratches consistent with handling. There are no visible signs of plating loss (pitting) or significant denting to the crown.
Value Estimate
Retail: $70 - $110 USD. Secondary market/Auction: $40 - $75 USD depending on size and finish rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or silver 'dips' as they can strip the rose-gold plating. Use a microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and maintain the mirror shine.
Similar Pieces
Michael Aram Black Orchid collection (similar organic feel), Tiffany & Co. Sterling Fruit (more realistic/smooth), or Georg Jensen Indulgence collection (more minimal/fluid).
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is a significant symbol in Armenian culture (the designer's heritage), representing life, fertility, and abundance. This collection is one of Michael Aram's most frequently gifted items for weddings and housewarmings.