Israeli Sterling Silver Pomegranate Spice Box or Miniature Figurine
Decorative Object / Judaica (Besamim) · Unknown Israeli Silversmith. The stamp indicates the piece was made in Israel, possibly in the Tel Aviv or Jerusalem artisan district. Israeli silver is noted for blending Yemenite filigree traditions with modern minimalist forms.
Pattern: Traditional Sephardic/Judaic Pomegranate (Rimon) motif. This is a recurring theme in Jewish art and is not part of a copyrighted commercial tableware pattern.
Type
Decorative Object / Judaica (Besamim)
Maker
Unknown Israeli Silversmith. The stamp indicates the piece was made in Israel, possibly in the Tel Aviv or Jerusalem artisan district. Israeli silver is noted for blending Yemenite filigree traditions with modern minimalist forms.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid silver hollowware, possibly with a weighted or filled base for stability if used as a centerpiece item.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 2.5 - 3 inches (6.5 - 7.5 cm). Weight is likely between 40 to 70 grams. It is a miniature/individual size, often sold as part of a pair or for use on a personal Shabbat table.
Description
An elegant and symbolic representation of a pomegranate, this sterling silver piece captures the fruit’s natural silhouette with contemporary flair. Often associated with the 613 mitzvot (commandments) in Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is a symbol of righteousness and fruitfulness. This piece balances a sleek, reflective body with a textured crown, making it a versatile object for both religious ritual and modern home decor.
Key Features
Distinctive circular hallmark visible on the outer lower curve (unusual placement, as marks are typically on the base), high-chrome polish, and an organic pomegranate calyx (crown) top.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid silver hollowware, possibly with a weighted or filled base for stability if used as a centerpiece item.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the body with an oxidized (darkened) crown to highlight the characteristic pomegranate sepals. It features a modern, organic, and minimalist style typical of late 20th-century Israeli design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The prominent circular stamp features the word 'STERLING' in English and '925' in a vertical or stacked format. There is an additional mark, likely the Israeli state 'Harpsichord' or 'Ma'of' export mark, or a specific workshop's logo, certifying the metal purity under Israeli law.
Construction Details
Spun or lobed body construction. Two-part assembly where the 'crown' of the fruit is cast and then soldered to the polished spherical base. The visible solder line has been buffed to a seamless finish.
Functional Features
If the top is removable, it serves as a 'Besamim' (spice box) for the Havdalah ceremony; if sealed, it is a decorative shelf figurine or weight. A red cord is visible, suggesting it may have been sold as a gift or ornament.
Handle & Grip Details
The 'crown' at the top acts as a small grip for lifting (if used as a spice box lid). It is cast in solid silver and shows organic, pointed detailing typical of the pomegranate fruit.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality commercial craftsmanship. The body shows excellent symmetry indicating professional spinning, while the mark is struck with sufficient force to be legible, suggesting a reputable workshop.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' and 'Sterling' marks are clearly die-struck. The color of the metal tarnish (dark purple/black) is consistent with genuine silver alloy reaction. No signs of plating wear (such as copper/brass showing through) are visible.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel. This type of secular-religious art is a major export for Israeli studios such as Bier, Hadad, or Karshi, though this specific mark is a generic purity stamp.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (post-1960s). This style reflects the Modern Israeli school of silversmithing which favors clean lines over the ornate filigree of the early 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010. The crispness of the stamp and the specific typography of the '925' and 'Sterling' marks are consistent with modern mass-production for the gift and religious market.
Cultural Significance
A staple of Judaica collecting, the pomegranate (Rimon) is used for spice boxes for Havdalah, decorative Torah finials, and as a symbolic gift for weddings and the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah).
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. There is noticeable tarnish/oxidation around the top crown and neck areas (sulfide deposits), and minor surface scratches consistent with handling. The red string suggests it may be New Old Stock or recently purchased from a souvenir shop. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD. Value is driven by silver weight and its appeal as a gift item; pieces with specific famous maker marks (like Hazorfim) may command higher premiums.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft sponge. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the intentional oxidation from the crown. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent the heavy tarnish seen at the neck.
Similar Pieces
Bier Silversmiths Pomegranate, Hazorfim Silver Figurines, and Christofle 'Grappe' series. Competitor pieces often feature more textured bodies or semi-precious stone accents like Eilat stone.
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 commandments in the Torah. This makes it one of the most popular motifs for Israeli silversmiths alongside the olive branch and grape vine.