Modernist Pomegranate Paperweight/Figurine
Decorative Object (Paperweight, Figurine, or Salt Cellar) · Likely of Israeli or Mexican boutique origin; similar in style to Hazorfim or Neman Brothers, but often found as unmarked Judaica or modernist giftware.
Pattern: Naturalistic Pomegranate; part of various fruit-themed sculptural collections popular in the late 20th century.
Type
Decorative Object (Paperweight, Figurine, or Salt Cellar)
Maker
Likely of Israeli or Mexican boutique origin; similar in style to Hazorfim or Neman Brothers, but often found as unmarked Judaica or modernist giftware.
Material
Likely Silver Plated over copper or bronze, or possibly Rose Gold Vermeil over Sterling Silver (.925) or low-grade 800 silver. The deep copper/rose tone suggests significant oxidation of a copper-rich alloy or a specific rose-gold finish.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 2.5-3 inches; width of 2.75 inches. Weight is likely between 150-300 grams depending on whether the core is solid metal or hollow-cast resin.
Description
A striking sculptural representation of a pomegranate, this piece captures the fruit's symbolic 'crown' with graceful, upward-reaching points. Its bulbous, slightly irregular body mimics the natural asymmetrical growth of the fruit. While currently showing a deep, warm tarnish that highlights its copper-rich base or surface finish, it was originally designed as a brilliant, light-reflecting modern ornament.
Key Features
The distinctive five-pointed calyx crown and the dimpled texture at the 'blossom end' of the fruit. The clean, unadorned surfaces are a hallmark of mid-to-late 20th-century modernist design.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver Plated over copper or bronze, or possibly Rose Gold Vermeil over Sterling Silver (.925) or low-grade 800 silver. The deep copper/rose tone suggests significant oxidation of a copper-rich alloy or a specific rose-gold finish.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with naturalistic organic modeling. The piece features a prominent 'calyx' (crown) at the top and a textured 'bruise' or stem-scar point at the base. It is currently heavily tarnished with iridescent, copper-toned oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible on the upper body. Marks would typically be found on the base, likely including a '925' or 'Sterling' stamp if silver, or 'EPNS'/'Silverplate' if plated.
Construction Details
Cast metal construction, likely using the lost-wax method or electroforming. The smooth surface suggests a high-quality mold followed by machine buffing.
Functional Features
Primarily decorative as a paperweight or cabinet piece; some versions of this design feature a removable crown to act as a spice box (Besamim) or salt cellar.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the crown serves as the primary tactile point for lifting.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent form and symmetry. The seamless transition between the crown and the body suggests high-quality casting. Surface finishing is uniform despite the current tarnish.
Authentication Indicators
The weight will be the primary indicator of authenticity (solid sterling vs. weighted resin). The tarnish pattern (iridescent blues and pinks) is highly characteristic of modern silver alloys reacting to domestic environmental sulfur.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Israel (where the pomegranate is a central cultural symbol) or Italy/Mexico. Produced in a commercial atelier focusing on liturgical or giftware silver.
Era & Period
Modernist / Contemporary (Post-1970). The organic, minimalist aesthetic gained significant popularity in the 1990s and 2000s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2015 based on the style of the cast calyx and the specific iridescent tarnish pattern common in modern silver-copper hybrids.
Cultural Significance
Deeply significant as a 'Seven Species' fruit of the Holy Land; frequently used in Judaica as a symbol of righteousness and abundance.
Condition Notes
Very Good structural condition, but Fair surface condition. There is heavy tarnish/oxidation resulting in a rose-gold or copper hue, along with some visible fingerprint spotting/corrosion on the top shoulder.
Value Estimate
$40–$60 if silver-plated; $120–$250 if solid Sterling Silver, depending on weight and maker's mark.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver foam (like Wright’s Silver Cream). Given the heavy tarnish, a silver dip may be used briefly, though hand-polishing with a soft cloth is safer to preserve the crispness of the crown's edges.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. produced a similar sterling fruit line; Hazorfim (Israel) produces various pomegranate-shaped honey dishes and ornaments which are often more ornate.
Interesting Facts
In many cultures, the pomegranate symbolizes fertility, beauty, and eternal life. In Jewish tradition, it is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah.