Electroplated Silver/Copper Pomegranate Figurine, Likely Hazorfim or similar Judaica studio
Decorative Object / Judaica / Cabinet Piece · Attributed to Hazorfim or similar contemporary Israeli silversmith studio. Hazorfim is the most famous Israeli luxury silver manufacturer, founded in 1952 by immigrants following traditional European techniques.
Pattern: Modern Organic Pomegranate; frequently part of a 'Symbols of Israel' or 'Rosh Hashanah' collection.
Type
Decorative Object / Judaica / Cabinet Piece
Maker
Attributed to Hazorfim or similar contemporary Israeli silversmith studio. Hazorfim is the most famous Israeli luxury silver manufacturer, founded in 1952 by immigrants following traditional European techniques.
Material
Electroplated silver over a base metal (likely copper or brass, as indicated by the warm/rose tone visible in the reflection) or copper-plated sterling. The '925' mark in the round seal suggests sterling silver, but the warm hue indicates a rose-gold or vermeil finish.
Dimensions
Small handheld size; estimated 6-8 cm in height and diameter. Weight is likely substantial if solid-cast, or lighter if electroformed/hollow.
Description
An elegant, polished representation of a pomegranate, a symbol of fertility and righteousness. The piece captures the slightly lopsided, natural form of the fruit, topped with a sharp, regal crown. Its surface is reflective, picking up the surrounding environment, which emphasizes its sculptural qualities.
Key Features
Round hallmark seal embedded directly into the side of the fruit body; five-pointed crown; distinct vermeil/rose-gold tint; organic, non-symmetrical silhouette.
Material & Composition
Electroplated silver over a base metal (likely copper or brass, as indicated by the warm/rose tone visible in the reflection) or copper-plated sterling. The '925' mark in the round seal suggests sterling silver, but the warm hue indicates a rose-gold or vermeil finish.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a warm vermeil or copper-toned wash. The form is irregular and organic to mimic a real fruit, featuring a distinctive five-pointed crown (calyx) at the top.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A circular seal is visible on the side containing several marks. It appears to include a '925' purity mark for sterling silver, alongside a maker's logo (likely the Hazorfim 'H' or a Jerusalem-based workshop mark).
Construction Details
Likely created through electroforming, a process where silver is built up over a wax or resin mold, allowing for high detail and organic shapes without the weight of solid casting.
Functional Features
Stationary decorative object; used primarily as a paperweight, shelf decor, or as a traditional gift for the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah).
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; the fruit body serves as the grip. The crown at the top is fragile and not intended for lifting.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality electroforming/casting. The seam lines are well-hidden, and the polished surface shows no pits or casting bubbles, indicating a premium manufacturing process.
Authentication Indicators
The circular seal is a standard way modern Israeli workshops mark their pieces. The clarity of the crown tips and the smoothness of the polish suggest a professional workshop rather than a tourist-grade reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Crafted in Israel; likely in the workshops of Jerusalem or Tel Aviv where Judaica silversmithing is a centralized tradition.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern (late 20th - early 21st century). The minimalist, organic aesthetic is typical of modern Israeli metalwork.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day. The style and marking system are consistent with modern luxury giftware.
Cultural Significance
Represents abundance and wisdom. Such items are frequently given as wedding gifts or 'housewarmings' in Israeli culture to wish the recipient a fruitful life.
Condition Notes
Very Good Condition. There are minor surface micro-scratches consistent with handling. The reddish tint may be intentional plating or an indication of the base metal showing through if it was originally silver-plated. No visible dents or structural damage.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on whether it is solid sterling (heavier weight) or electroplated base metal, and the specific desirability of the maker mark.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a very soft micro-fiber cloth. Avoid harsh silver dips which can strip the thin gold/copper wash. Store in a soft pouch to prevent surface scratches.
Similar Pieces
Tane (Mexico) fruit figurines; Tiffany & Co. sterling fruit novelties. The main difference is the specific Judaic marking and the 'calyx' crown design unique to the pomegranate.
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) in the Torah. It is a staple symbol in modern Judaica art.