Israeli Sterling Silver Pomegranate Form Decorative Miniature
Decorative Object / Judaica Miniature · Unknown Israeli Silversmith. Likely a specialist workshop in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem known for modern Judaica and symbolic botanical forms.
Pattern: Traditional Pomegranate Motif; widely used in Contemporary Jewish Art.
Type
Decorative Object / Judaica Miniature
Maker
Unknown Israeli Silversmith. Likely a specialist workshop in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem known for modern Judaica and symbolic botanical forms.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with a heavy vermeil or natural high-copper tarnish patina; hollow-cast or electroformed construction.
Dimensions
Miniature scale, approximately 5-7cm height; estimated weight 40-70 grams depending on wall thickness.
Description
A striking sterling silver pomegranate figurine, a hallmark of Middle Eastern and Jewish decorative arts. The piece features a smooth, swelling body that tapers into a jagged, historically accurate crown. The surface exhibits a rich, warm patina with prismatic oxidsation.
Key Features
Realistic pomegranate crown; seamless bulbous construction; characteristic Israeli 'Soft Modern' design language.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with a heavy vermeil or natural high-copper tarnish patina; hollow-cast or electroformed construction.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with organic, free-form modeling; naturally occurring iridescent tarnish (rainbow tarnish) suggesting silver content reacting to environment.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on the base with '925' and an Israeli Export Mark (often a stylized lyre or state seal). Not visible in the primary image.
Construction Details
Likely Electroformed silver. This technique allows for organic, seamless bulbous shapes with a hollow interior, common in Israeli silver manufacturing.
Functional Features
Purely decorative/symbolic object; may serve as a paperweight or a festive table ornament for Rosh Hashanah.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the calyx (crown) at the top serves as the decorative focal point and can be used to lift the piece.
Craftsmanship Details
Expertly shaped crown points with a weighted feel despite hollow construction; high-quality polishing of curved surfaces.
Authentication Indicators
The 'bubbly' texture near the bottom indentation and the specific crown morphology are consistent with Israeli silver workshops like Karshi or Bier.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel; likely hand-finished in a studio specializing in symbolic metalwork.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern Era (Late 20th Century to present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010 based on the electroforming style and organic aesthetic.
Cultural Significance
Deeply significant in Judaica; used as a symbol of fertility, abundance, and the new year (Rosh Hashanah).
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. Notable surface oxidation and tarnish spotting. No visible dents or structural collapses.
Value Estimate
$100 - $250 USD depending on the verified weight of the sterling and the prestige of the specific workshop mark.
Care & Maintenance
Gently clean with a soft silver cloth; avoid harsh chemical dips which could strip the attractive 'rainbow' patina. Use mild soapy water for crevices.
Similar Pieces
Hazorfim Sterling Pomegranates (usually more ornate/engraved); Nadav Art Modernist Pomegranates (often featuring anodized aluminum accents).
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is one of the 'Seven Species' of Israel and symbolizes righteousness, as it is said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah.