Mid-Century Modernist Pomegranate Figural Silver Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm) · Unidentified Modernist Silversmith; stylistic attributes suggest Scandinavian (Danish/Finnish) or Israeli Modernist influences from the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Modernist Botanical - Pomegranate Motif; likely a studio-crafted piece or part of a small boutique production line.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm)
Maker
Unidentified Modernist Silversmith; stylistic attributes suggest Scandinavian (Danish/Finnish) or Israeli Modernist influences from the mid-20th century.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver (.800-.900). Features a possible carnelian or red glass bead accent near the top loop.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5cm x 2.5cm (1.4" x 1.0"). Approximate weight between 8-12 grams based on visible volume and casting thickness.
Description
A striking modernist pendant depicting a bursting pomegranate. The piece utilizes a high-relief casting technique to show individual seeds emerging from within the rind, paired with a singular textured leaf. The heavy oxidation creates a dramatic chiaroscuro effect, highlighting the sculptural quality of the silver. It represents the mid-century shift toward nature-inspired, non-symmetrical artistic jewelry.
Key Features
Stylized 'burst' fruit design, spherical seed clusters, integral stem-loop, and contrasting dark-recess oxidation.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver (.800-.900). Features a possible carnelian or red glass bead accent near the top loop.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish within the recessed areas to accentuate depth; satin-brushed surface on raised areas. Stylized organic form with globular representations of seeds, textured leaf, and cast stem.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Generally located on the reverse or the bale. Expected marks would be '925' or a specific maker's cypher/initials.
Construction Details
Lost-wax cast (cire perdue) construction, evidenced by the fluid organic shapes and rounded edges. Hand-finished with polishing and intentional oxidation.
Functional Features
Integrated suspension loop (bale) formed by the curving stem; hollow-backed or semi-hollow construction to reduce weight for wearability.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry item); the stem serves as the attachment point for a chain or cord.
Craftsmanship Details
Quality studio work with good depth of field; the transition between the smooth rind and the stippled seeds shows competent finishing and design balance.
Authentication Indicators
Construction matches known mid-century casting techniques; wear patterns on the bale suggest genuine use. Final authentication requires verifying the silver purity stamp on the reverse.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Northern Europe (Denmark/Sweden) or Israel (notably the Maskit workshop style). These regions specialized in oxidized silver botanical jewelry during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1970). The stylized, abstracted botanical form is highly characteristic of postwar studio jewelry movements.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s-1970s based on the 'brutalist' organic casting style and the popularity of pomegranate iconography in that era.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 'Modernist Jewelry Movement' which prioritized artistic expression and symbolic forms over the intrinsic value of faceted gemstones.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light surface scratches and pocket wear consistent with age. Heavy patina is intentional but shows some irregular darkening from handling.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD as an unattributed vintage piece; $150+ if a specific notable maker's mark is found on the reverse.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid silver dips which will strip the intentional black oxidation from the recesses. Use a microfiber cloth for light highlighting of the raised seeds.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Grape' collection (more refined, less brutalist); Maskit Israel pomegranate designs (very similar organic casting); Hans Jensen Danish silver florals.
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is a universal symbol of fertility, abundance, and rebirth, making it one of the most popular motifs for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern modernist jewelers.