Modernist Rose Gold-Tone Pomegranate Figurine
Decorative Object / Paperweight · Unattributed Contemporary Maker; stylistically reminiscent of Israeli Judaica designers like Avi Luvaton or Hazorfim, though likely a mass-market decorative adaptation.
Pattern: Naturalistic / Botanical Pomegranate series; no specific named pattern group identified.
Type
Decorative Object / Paperweight
Maker
Unattributed Contemporary Maker; stylistically reminiscent of Israeli Judaica designers like Avi Luvaton or Hazorfim, though likely a mass-market decorative adaptation.
Material
Copper or Brass base with Rose Gold/Copper-tone plating; not solid sterling silver as indicated by the distinct reddish-orange hue and localized greenish oxidation (verdigris).
Dimensions
Approximately 3 inches in height and 3.5 inches in diameter; estimated weight 150-250 grams depending on whether the core is hollow or weighted.
Description
An elegant, stylized decorative pomegranate featuring a lustrous rose-gold finish. The piece captures the iconic rounded form of the fruit, topped with a pronounced, jagged calyx that resembles a crown. Its modern, minimal aesthetic strips away realistic texture in favor of a sleek, reflective surface that plays with light and shadow. A small circular emblem at the base suggests the internal seeds, providing a singular point of texture on an otherwise smooth form.
Key Features
Distinctive six-pointed crown; rose-gold/copper metallic finish; minimalist botanical silhouette; textured base seal.
Material & Composition
Copper or Brass base with Rose Gold/Copper-tone plating; not solid sterling silver as indicated by the distinct reddish-orange hue and localized greenish oxidation (verdigris).
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a warm rose-colored tone. The piece features a distinct crown (calyx) at the top and a textured seed-burst emblem at the base.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the provided image; contemporary base metal pieces typically lack purity stamps or may have a simple country of origin sticker on the felted underside.
Construction Details
Likely die-cast or industrially molded metal; the smooth, uniform surface suggests machine production rather than hand-raised silversmithing.
Functional Features
Primarily ornamental; may serve as a paperweight or a symbolic centerpiece. The calyx is decorative and not designed as a functional pourer.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles present; the bulbous body is designed to be gripped as a solid object or handled as a paperweight.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; the piece shows excellent symmetry and a consistent plating layer, though the visible oxidation indicates the plating is thin and the base metal is reactive.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of .925 or Sterling stamps; presence of copper-colored tarnish rather than black silver-sulfide tarnish; uniform thickness characteristic of industrial casting.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Israel (due to cultural significance) or China (mass-market decorative import), utilizing industrial electroplating techniques.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th - Early 21st Century); Modernist interpretation of traditional botanical symbolism.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-2024; the high-gloss finish and condition of the modern remote control for scale suggest recent production.
Cultural Significance
Highly significant in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures; frequently used as a decorative motif in Rosh Hashanah celebrations and as a gift symbolizing prosperity.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair condition. Significant evidence of surface oxidation and tarnishing, appearing as dark spots and greenish patches (pitting) on the upper shoulders. Surface shows light micro-scratching.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD. Value is based on decorative appeal rather than precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid abrasive silver dips which will strip the thin rose-gold plating. Use a mild copper polish if the base metal is exposed, but test on the bottom first.
Similar Pieces
Hazorfim Sterling Pomegranate (higher value, solid silver); Michael Aram Pomegranate dish (nickel plate/brass); Avi Luvaton glass and silver pomegranates.
Interesting Facts
In many cultures, specifically within Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is a symbol of righteousness, fertility, and abundance, often said to contain 613 seeds corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments).