Modernist Pomegranate-Form Sterling Silver Decorative Figurine / Paperweight
Decorative Object (Figurine / Paperweight) · Unknown Contemporary or Mid-Century Maker; possibly of Israeli or Mediterranean origin where the pomegranate is a traditional motif (e.g., Hazorfim or Neman). The quality suggests a boutique silversmith or a high-end giftware brand.
Pattern: Naturalistic/Organic Pomegranate Series; likely a standalone decorative piece rather than part of a dinnerware collection.
Type
Decorative Object (Figurine / Paperweight)
Maker
Unknown Contemporary or Mid-Century Maker; possibly of Israeli or Mediterranean origin where the pomegranate is a traditional motif (e.g., Hazorfim or Neman). The quality suggests a boutique silversmith or a high-end giftware brand.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly 800-grade silver. The warm, reddish-gold tone visible in the lighting indicates heavy fire scale or a vermeil (gold-plated silver) wash that has aged, or perhaps a high copper content in the alloy being highlighted by warm sunset lighting.
Dimensions
Diameter: approximately 3.5 - 4 inches; Height: approximately 4 inches. Estimated weight: 150-300 grams depending on whether the silver is hollow-cast or weighted with resin/cement.
Description
A striking, life-sized silver pomegranate featuring a high-polish surface that captures light in a dramatic, distorted fashion. The piece emphasizes the iconic 'crown' of the fruit, rendered with naturalistic jagged edges. Its heavy tarnish suggests a period of display without regular maintenance, resulting in a rich, multi-tonal patina that ranges from copper-red to dark grey.
Key Features
Organic calyx detailing, spherical body with slight asymmetric 'natural' flattening, and a seamless mirror-polish surface that creates a liquid-metal effect.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly 800-grade silver. The warm, reddish-gold tone visible in the lighting indicates heavy fire scale or a vermeil (gold-plated silver) wash that has aged, or perhaps a high copper content in the alloy being highlighted by warm sunset lighting.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with organic, free-form shaping. Occasional dimples to mimic a real fruit's skin. The crown (calyx) is hand-finished or cast from a mold of a real pomegranate crown. Exhibits significant tarnish and surface oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the primary image; usually located on the flat base or tucked under the edge of the calyx. Would likely include a '925' or 'Sterling' stamp and a maker's mark/initials.
Construction Details
Likely manufactured using the lost-wax casting method or electroforming. Electroforming is common for these complex organic shapes to achieve a high-detail silver shell over a structural core. The calyx appears to be cast separately and joined or part of a single mold.
Functional Features
Primarily decorative; can function as a desk paperweight or a 'Rimon' (Hebrew for pomegranate) symbolic object for the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah).
Handle & Grip Details
The calyx serves as a natural grip/top handle for lifting the object.
Craftsmanship Details
Balanced weight and a lack of visible seams suggest high-quality production. The calyx shows more 'hand-finished' attention than the body, which was likely machine-buffed to a high gloss.
Authentication Indicators
The way the light reflects suggests a thick silver layer; the tarnish pattern is consistent with silver sulfide formation on a high-purity silver surface.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Israel, Italy, or Turkey. These regions have strong traditions in producing silver fruit or botanical forms for the tourist and religious markets.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (late 20th century to present). It blends traditional Jewish/Mediterranean symbolism with a sleek, minimalist Modernist aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980 - 2010. The form and surface wear are consistent with late 20th-century decorative giftware.
Cultural Significance
Represents fertility, abundance, and righteousness across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. In silver form, it is a classic 'luxury' housewarming gift symbolizing a home full of blessings.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface tarnish and oxidation (black and blue spots) are visible. There are numerous small surface scratches and potential 'pitting' from environmental exposure. Requires a professional hand-polish to restore luster.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD. Value depends heavily on whether the item is solid sterling (higher value) or weighted/electroformed (lower value), and if a prestige maker's mark is found.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid silver 'dips' which can strip the metal too aggressively. Use a microfiber cloth to prevent further scratching. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Fruit (usually more realistic/heavy); Buccellati Silver Fruits (defined by intense textural detail/engraving); Mid-Century Mexican silver fruit (often larger and more primitive in execution).
Interesting Facts
In many cultures, the pomegranate was thought to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) in the Torah, making these silver versions very popular as wedding or holiday gifts.