S.J. Rose & Son Sterling Silver Pomegranate Spice Box
Decorative Object / Ritual Object (Besamim) · S.J. Rose & Son (Silversmiths based in Birmingham and London). Founded by Simon Joseph Rose in the early 20th century, the firm was well-regarded for high-quality small silver wares and Judaica.
Pattern: Naturalistic Pomegranate Form; specifically produced for the Judaica market or as high-end novelty fruit decor.
Type
Decorative Object / Ritual Object (Besamim)
Maker
S.J. Rose & Son (Silversmiths based in Birmingham and London). Founded by Simon Joseph Rose in the early 20th century, the firm was well-regarded for high-quality small silver wares and Judaica.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The item appears to be solid sterling rather than plated, given the depth of the hallmark stamp.
Dimensions
Small novelty size, approximately 4-5 cm in height and 3.5 cm in diameter. Estimated weight is between 40-60 grams (not weighted).
Description
This exquisite sterling silver pomegranate is a masterwork of representational silver design by S.J. Rose & Son. Symbolizing fertility, abundance, and wisdom, the pomegranate is a particularly significant motif in Jewish tradition. This piece features a perfectly spherical body with a soft, lustrous polish that contrasts beautifully with the textured, cast crown. It resides comfortably in the palm, serving as both a tactile objet d'art and a functional ritual vessel for the Havdalah ceremony.
Key Features
Large, prominent circular hallmark located on the mid-section of the fruit (an unusual placement usually reserved for decorative emphasis); realistic botanical crown; high-quality heavy-gauge silver construction.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The item appears to be solid sterling rather than plated, given the depth of the hallmark stamp.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the body with an oxidized or 'antiqued' finish on the calyx (the crown of the fruit). The design is minimalist and modern, relying on the organic form of the fruit rather than surface engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The circular stamp contains British hallmarks: 'SJR' for S.J. Rose & Son, the Lion Passant (English hallmark for sterling silver), the Anchor (Birmingham Assay Office), and a date letter (though slightly blurred, the style suggests the mid-to-late 20th century).
Construction Details
Spun or raised globular body with a cast calyx/stem top. The top appears to be a separate component joined to the body, potentially via a threaded screw or simple friction fit if used as a spice container.
Functional Features
Removable cap at the crown. If hollow, it serves as a 'Besamim' (spice box) for the Jewish Havdalah ceremony, used to hold aromatic spices like cloves.
Handle & Grip Details
The fruit's crown (calyx) serves as the grip for opening the vessel. It is cast silver with realistic jagged edges mimicking the dried petals of a real pomegranate.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine-assisted spinning of the body ensures perfect symmetry, while the hand-finished joinery of the crown and the deep, crisp striking of the hallmarks indicate a superior level of British silver manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
The 'SJR' maker's mark is a known registered mark for S.J. Rose & Son. The clear presence of the hallmark on the outer wall is a classic 20th-century design choice meant to prove authenticity and quality immediately to the user.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England. Produced in one of the historic silversmithing hubs in the UK, adhering to strict British assay standards.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to late 20th century (Modernist Judaica). It reflects a trend toward clean, representational forms popular between 1950 and 1980.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980. The hallmark configuration and the specific font of the 'SJR' maker's mark are consistent with this post-war period.
Cultural Significance
Crucial in the context of Jewish ritual art. The use of silver for Besamim boxes follows the 'Hiddur Mitzvah' principle—the idea of beautifying a commandment through the use of precious materials.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Visible light surface scratches (patina) consistent with handling. There is moderate tarnish around the crevices of the crown. A red thread is tied around the neck, which is a modern addition and not part of the silver construction. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $150 to $350 USD depending on the specific date letter and current silver spot price. Pieces by S.J. Rose carry a premium due to their reputable English craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and a gentle silver cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive 'dips' which can remove the character-giving oxidation in the crown details. Store in a tarnish-resistant bag.
Similar Pieces
Hand-hammered pomegranates by Yemenite-Israeli silversmiths (which usually lack British hallmarks) or Tiffany & Co. fruit-themed desk accessories.
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) in the Torah. S.J. Rose & Son were famous for making high-quality cigarette cases before pivoting into diverse small silver items, including high-end Judaica pieces like this one.