Dabbah Sterling Silver Pomegranate Sculptures on Glass Platter
Decorative Object / Centerpiece · Dabbah Silversmiths, an esteemed Israeli workshop based in Jerusalem. They are renowned for blending traditional Judaica motifs with modern artistic flair, specializing in high-quality sterling silver symbolic objects.
Pattern: Nature Collection - The Pomegranate (Rimon). This is a signature motif for Dabbah, symbolizing fertility, righteousness, and wisdom. These are constant production items but often grouped in custom arrangements.
Type
Decorative Object / Centerpiece
Maker
Dabbah Silversmiths, an esteemed Israeli workshop based in Jerusalem. They are renowned for blending traditional Judaica motifs with modern artistic flair, specializing in high-quality sterling silver symbolic objects.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). These are hollow-form silver sculptures. The base is an textured, slumped glass art platter with sterling silver corner accents.
Dimensions
Various sizes: Large pomegranates approx. 8-10cm diameter, smaller ones 4-5cm. Total silver weight for a set of this size is estimated between 400g and 700g of sterling silver, excluding the glass.
Description
An exquisite collection of sterling silver pomegranates of varying ripeness and sizes, artistically arranged on a textured glass base. Some fruits are depicted closed and smooth, while others are 'bursting' to reveal meticulously detailed silver seeds. The interplay between the high-shine silver skin and the dark, oxidized interior seeds creates a striking visual contrast that celebrates one of the Seven Species of Israel.
Key Features
The 'burst' pomegranate design is a Dabbah signature. The use of varied scales (small to large) creates a naturalistic, harvested look. The hallmark on the glass plate corner is a critical identifier for the ensemble.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). These are hollow-form silver sculptures. The base is an textured, slumped glass art platter with sterling silver corner accents.
Finish & Decoration
The pieces feature a combination of high-polish mirror finishes and oxidized recessed areas to highlight the 'seeds' (arils). Decorative techniques include chasing and applied silver details for the leafy stems and the characteristic serrated calyx (crown) of the pomegranate. Small sections are textured to mimic the natural skin of the fruit.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Each pomegranate typically bears the 'Dabbah' workshop stamp and a '925' or 'Sterling' fineness mark, usually located near the base or under a leaf. The glass platter features a distinct square silver maker's mark in the corner with the Dabbah logo.
Construction Details
The fruit bodies are created using a combination of spinning/raising for the bulbous forms and casting for the intricate crowns and leaves. The 'burst' sections showing seeds are hand-chased or cast components soldered to the main body. The base is artisan slumped glass.
Functional Features
Purely decorative centerpiece; individual pomegranates are often weighted or balanced to sit at specific angles. Removable from the platter for modular display.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Decorative object; however, the leafy stems serve as structural grips for the smaller pieces.
Craftsmanship Details
Premium craftsmanship. The transitions between the smooth 'skin' and the textured 'seeds' are seamless, indicating expert soldering and finishing. The weighted balance of each piece allows it to sit naturally without rolling.
Authentication Indicators
Distinct Dabbah logo on the glass corner plate; consistent proportions and high-quality soldering at the leaf/stem junctions; weightiness characteristic of sterling silver rather than plated base metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Jerusalem, Israel. Manufactured in the Dabbah studio using traditional hand-finishing techniques combined with modern silver casting.
Era & Period
Contemporary Judaica (Late 20th to Early 21st Century). The style reflects Modernist Israeli silver-smithing traditions which prioritize clean lines with traditional botanical symbolism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present. The condition and style suggest these pieces are likely from the last 15-20 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the flourishing of Israeli silversmithing and the modernization of Jewish symbolic art. It moves Judaica from the ritual cupboard to the contemporary art table.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. There is visible tarnish (sulfide buildup) in the recessed seed areas which is intentional, though some 'cloudiness' on the smooth surfaces suggests it needs a light polish. No visible dents or structural damage to the delicate crowns.
Value Estimate
$1,500 - $3,000 USD for the complete set on the glass base, depending on total silver weight and current market for Israeli artisan silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and a high-quality silver cream (like Wright's). Avoid 'dips' which will strip the intentional oxidation in the seed crevices. The glass should be hand-washed only.
Similar Pieces
Hazorfim Pomegranates (usually more traditional/rococo), Bier Silversmiths (often more minimalist/Brutalist), or various electroformed silver fruit (much lighter and less valuable).
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah. Dabbah's pomegranates are popular gifts for weddings and Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year).