Israeli Sterling Silver Pomegranate Bud Vase by Hadad Bros
Hollowware (Bud Vase / Decorative Object) · Hadad Bros (Hadad Brothers), a premier Israeli silversmithing firm founded in 1964. They are the largest and most prestigious silversmiths in Israel, known for blending traditional Jewish craftsmanship with modern technology.
Pattern: Traditional Pomegranate Collection; an iconic Israeli design that has been in continuous production for decades due to its symbolic nature.
Type
Hollowware (Bud Vase / Decorative Object)
Maker
Hadad Bros (Hadad Brothers), a premier Israeli silversmithing firm founded in 1964. They are the largest and most prestigious silversmiths in Israel, known for blending traditional Jewish craftsmanship with modern technology.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with a rose-gold wash or heavy tarnish/patina; the piece appears to be made of genuine silver but the photo's lighting gives it a copper-like hue. It is likely a hollow-form piece.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 3.5 to 4.5 inches. Estimated weight: 80 to 120 grams. These are standard 'cabinet' sizes meant for small floral sprigs or display.
Description
A striking example of Israeli sterling silver, this bud vase takes the form of a pomegranate—a traditional symbol of fertility and righteousness. The piece features a bulbous, hand-polished body that transitions into a jagged, crown-like neck. While the photo suggests a copper color, this is likely a result of warm ambient lighting on a high-carat vermeil finish or natural tarnish on sterling silver.
Key Features
Distinctive 6-pointed crown calyx; seamless bulbous body; weighted base for stability; iconic Israeli silhouette representing one of the Seven Species.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with a rose-gold wash or heavy tarnish/patina; the piece appears to be made of genuine silver but the photo's lighting gives it a copper-like hue. It is likely a hollow-form piece.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a crown-like 'calyx' at the top representing the pomegranate's bud. The style is Contemporary Judaica, often referred to as 'Organic Modernist' within the Israeli tradition.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the base: The 'Hadad' logo (often a stylized crown or name), '925' for sterling purity, and frequently a small 'Israel' stamp. The blurred mark on the side appears to be a stamped purity or maker's cartouche.
Construction Details
Spun or hydroformed body with a die-struck or cast calyx soldered to the top. The interior is generally hollow to serve as a reservoir for water.
Functional Features
Single narrow opening at the crown designed to hold 1-2 thin flower stems. The wide base provides stability for the weighted water inside.
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; the rounded 'fruit' body serves as the primary grip. The surface is smooth and intended to be held during the ritual of setting the table.
Craftsmanship Details
Features a high-quality seamless join between the body and the crown. The mirror finish requires significant hand-buffing expertise to ensure no ripples are visible on the curved surface.
Authentication Indicators
The silhouette is a trademark design of Hadad Bros; the presence of a stamped cartouche on the lower third of the body is consistent with their marking placement.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bnei Brak, Israel. Produced in the Hadad Bros workshop, which utilizes both traditional hand-finishing and modern silver-forming techniques.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (1980-Present). This design reflects the 'New Judaica' movement which simplifies traditional religious motifs into sleek, sculptural forms.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The condition and design suggest a piece from the late 20th or early 21st century.
Cultural Significance
The pomegranate is one of the 'Seven Species' of the Land of Israel. This object serves as both a functional vase and a 'Hiddur Mitzvah'—the Jewish principle of beautifying a commandment through aesthetic objects.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. There is significant surface tarnish or a rose-gold/vermeil wash visible. Minor surface micro-scratches from previous polishing are likely present. No visible dents or structural damage to the crown.
Value Estimate
$150.00 - $350.00 USD depending on exact weight, presence of original box, and whether the 'copper' color is a deliberate vermeil finish or heavy tarnish.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality silver cream and a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid citrus-based cleaners. If the item is rose-gold plated (vermeil), use only a very light touch to avoid wearing down the plating.
Similar Pieces
Hazorfim Pomegranate Vase (often more ornate/textured); Bier Silversmiths Pomegranate (often more angular); generic silver-plated versions (which lack the 925 weight and hallmarking).
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah. Hadad Bros pieces are often gifted at weddings or used to decorate Shabbat tables.