Israeli Sterling Silver Hand-Hammered Pomegranate Miniature Ornament
Decorative Object / Judaica · Unknown Israeli Silversmith. Various workshops in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv produce this specific form, often associated with makers like Hazorfim or Karshi, though the lack of a specific maker's mark suggests a smaller boutique workshop.
Pattern: Traditional Sephardic Pomegranate (Rimon) series. This is a staple of Jewish silver art and is produced as a non-patterned, artisanal item.
Type
Decorative Object / Judaica
Maker
Unknown Israeli Silversmith. Various workshops in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv produce this specific form, often associated with makers like Hazorfim or Karshi, though the lack of a specific maker's mark suggests a smaller boutique workshop.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with high-copper-content tarnish/patina. The body is thin-walled sterling silver; the 'crown' or calyx appears to have a slight gold-wash (vermeil) finish.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-6cm in height and 3-5cm in diameter; approximate weight 25-45 grams. It is a handheld miniature or 'table toy' size.
Description
An elegant, small-scale representation of a pomegranate, a sacred fruit in Mediterranean and Jewish culture. The piece features a lively, hand-hammered surface that catches the light from varying angles, contrasted by a stylized crown. Its warm, copper-toned patina suggests it has been displayed without polishing for some time, giving it a vintage character.
Key Features
Distinctive indented '925' stamp on the lower body; planished/hammered texture; five-pointed calyx; spherical but organic asymmetrical shape.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with high-copper-content tarnish/patina. The body is thin-walled sterling silver; the 'crown' or calyx appears to have a slight gold-wash (vermeil) finish.
Finish & Decoration
Hand-hammered or 'planished' surface texture creating light-reflecting facets. The top features a cast or hand-cut calyx. It displays a heavy rose-colored tarnish, likely due to oxidation of the copper alloy within the .925 silver.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item features a circular recessed stamp clearly marked '925' for sterling silver, accompanied by a small Hebrew hallmark (likely the 'Te' mark from the Standards Institution of Israel).
Construction Details
The body is likely made via metal spinning or two-part raising, subsequently hand-hammered for texture. The crown is soldered to the top. The base appears flattened to allow the piece to stand upright.
Functional Features
Purely decorative or symbolic; however, some versions of this design are crafted as 'Besamim' (spice boxes) for Havdalah, though this example appears sealed.
Handle & Grip Details
No dedicated handle; the crown part serves as a tactile grip for moving the object.
Craftsmanship Details
Mid-tier artisan quality. The hammering is intentional and decorative but shows some signs of rapid production. The solder joint at the crown is cleanly integrated.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the standard Israeli .925 mark and the specific hand-hammered technique consistent with regional artisans are strong indicators of authenticity.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel, likely Jerusalem. Israeli silversmithing traditions blend Yemenite filigree techniques with modern European planished (hammered) aesthetics.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Israeli Silver (Late 20th Century to Present). This style became highly popularized in the 1990s as part of the Jerusalem silver craft revival.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The style of the '925' stamp and the specific hammered finish are characteristic of modern Israeli giftware.
Cultural Significance
The pomegranate (Rimon) represents fertility, abundance, and righteousness. In silver form, it is one of the most widely recognized symbols of modern Israeli Judaica.
Condition Notes
Good structural condition. Significant surface tarnish/oxidation ranging from copper/rose to dark grey. No visible major dents or splits in the thin silver skin. Grade: Very Good (as a collectible).
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD depending on weight and specific artisan. Value is primarily in the craftsmanship and symbolic appeal rather than just the scrap silver content.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's) to restore the bright white silver shine. For the 'crown' area, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove tarnish from crevices. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth.
Similar Pieces
Hazorfim Hammered Series (higher price point, usually heavier), Karshi Silver plate (often confused but will not have the 925 stamp), Organic form silver apples (often paired with this piece for holiday sets).
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah. These silver versions are popular gifts for Rosh Hashanah and weddings.