Miniature Sterling Silver Pomegranate Spice Container / Besamim Box
Decorative Object / Judaica (Besamim Box) · Unknown Contemporary Israeli or Middle Eastern Silversmith. The maker's mark within the circle suggests a boutique workshop frequenting the Judaica markets in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv.
Pattern: Traditional Realistic Pomegranate Form; the pomegranate is a symbolic motif in Jewish art and Mediterranean cultures.
Type
Decorative Object / Judaica (Besamim Box)
Maker
Unknown Contemporary Israeli or Middle Eastern Silversmith. The maker's mark within the circle suggests a boutique workshop frequenting the Judaica markets in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Evidence of gold wash or vermeil on the serrated 'crown' area. Contains a small red thread accessory.
Dimensions
Small miniature scale; approximately 4-5 cm in height and 3.5 cm in diameter. Estimated weight is 15-25 grams of hollow-ware silver.
Description
This charming miniature silver fruit represents a pomegranate, realized in sterling silver. It features a rotund, smooth-polished body that contrasts with the textured, serrated 'crown' (the calyx) at the top. A distinctive circular hallmark medallion is prominently displayed on the shoulder, serving as both a certification of quality and a design element. Often used in Jewish ritual contexts to hold spices, the pomegranate symbolizes fertility, knowledge, and righteousness.
Key Features
The prominent applied circular hallmark medallion; the realistic botanical calyx; the use of vermeil (gold plating) on the top section.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Evidence of gold wash or vermeil on the serrated 'crown' area. Contains a small red thread accessory.
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-shine finish on the body with an oxidized or naturally tarnished crown. The piece features a prominent applied circular medallion containing hallmarks.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A circular stamp featuring '925' indicating sterling silver and an unidentified maker's monogram or Hebrew initials below the purity mark. The style of the mark is typical of modern Israeli silver production.
Construction Details
Two-part construction; the body is likely spun or blown silver sheet, while the crown element is cast and soldered to the neck. The medallion is die-struck and applied to the side.
Functional Features
Designed as a spice box (Besamim) for the Havdalah ceremony, the serrated crown likely serves as a removable lid or contains perforations for scent, though here it appears to be a decorative miniature.
Handle & Grip Details
No traditional handle; the serrated crown acts as the grip for opening/handling. A red string is currently tied around the neck for suspension or decorative purposes.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-aided spinning for the body with hand-soldered components. The application of the medallion is a standard production technique for small-scale commercial silver workshops.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' mark is consistent with international sterling standards; the construction method (joined neck) follows traditional hollow-ware techniques; wear is localized to the base and neck.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Israel. The pomegranate is the unofficial national fruit and a primary subject in Israeli silver craftsmanship, particularly in the workshops of Jaffa or Jerusalem.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (Late 20th Century to Present). The stamped medallion style is a modern convention for identifying purity in export-ready silver.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The crispness of the stamp and the specific style of the '925' numerals suggest relatively recent manufacture.
Cultural Significance
The pomegranate is a significant symbol in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, representing abundance and fertility. In the context of silver, it is a staple of 'New Bezalel' and contemporary Israeli art movements.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. There is visible tarnish (sulfide buildup) around the crown and neck area. The body shows light surface scratches consistent with handling. The red string is a non-original addition.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Value is driven by the silver weight and its appeal as a collectible piece of Judaica or a miniature object.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cloth and a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Avoid immersion if the piece is weighted (though this appears to be a light hollow shell). Remove the red string before cleaning.
Similar Pieces
Bier Silversmiths Pomegranates (usually heavier and often signed 'Bier'); Hazorfim Silver Fruit (frequently more ornate/engraved); or silver-plated souvenir versions (which lack the 925 medallion).
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah. These are highly collectible within the realm of Judaica beyond their silver value.