Tane Orfebres Pomegranate Figural Sterling Silver Place Card Holder / Decorative Object
Decorative Object / Place Card Holder / Small Hollowware · Tane Orfebres (Mexico City). Founded in 1944, Tane is Mexico’s premier luxury silversmith, known as the 'Hermès of Mexico' for its exceptional craftsmanship and high-purity silver standards.
Pattern: Granada (Pomegranate) Flora Series; an iconic Tane design typically produced as part of their fruit and vegetable botanical collections.
Type
Decorative Object / Place Card Holder / Small Hollowware
Maker
Tane Orfebres (Mexico City). Founded in 1944, Tane is Mexico’s premier luxury silversmith, known as the 'Hermès of Mexico' for its exceptional craftsmanship and high-purity silver standards.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with possible vermeil (gold wash) or fire-scale highlights on the interior calyx. Solid silver body, likely hollow-formed.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 cm in height and diameter. Weight approximately 40-60 grams. It is sized perfectly as a desk accessory or table place card holder.
Description
This exquisite sterling silver pomegranate by Tane Orfebres captures the lush symbolism of the 'Granada' in a hand-finished miniature form. The bulbous, organic body is polished to a brilliant sheen, contrasting beautifully with the crown-like calyx that shows meticulous texturing. Tane’s work is characterized by substantial weight and a purity of line that makes this small object feel like a significant piece of sculpture.
Key Features
Distinctive large circular Tane hallmark on the side; textured calyx for holding cards; seamless joint between the fruit body and the blossoming top; heavy gauge silver construction.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with possible vermeil (gold wash) or fire-scale highlights on the interior calyx. Solid silver body, likely hollow-formed.
Finish & Decoration
High-polished mirror finish on the body with an antiqued/oxidized finish on the textured blossom (calyx). The style is Naturalism/Mid-Century Modern Mexican luxury.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The prominent circular stamp features 'TANE' at the top, 'MEXICO' in the center, and the '.925' purity mark. It also includes the 'MT-01' registration code (M for Mexico City, T for Tane).
Construction Details
Forged, raised, or spun hollow body with a cast and hand-chased blossom (calyx) soldered to the top. The base is likely weighted or flat-finished for stability.
Functional Features
Features a split or indented blossom top designed to hold a place card, menu, or photograph. It serves as both a functional table accessory and a decorative sculpture.
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; the fruit form itself serves as the grip. The calyx at the top is the functional 'clip' for paper goods.
Craftsmanship Details
Exhibits superior hand-finishing. Unlike mass-produced cast items, the walls of the pomegranate show the evenness of a master-spun or raised piece, with high-quality soldering at the neck.
Authentication Indicators
The 'MT-01' mark is the primary indicator of authenticity for Tane. The depth and clarity of the side-stamp are consistent with genuine factory striking rather than a cast counterfeit.
Origin & Manufacturing
Mexico, Mexico City. Produced in Tane's elite workshop which utilizes traditional Spanish colonial techniques modernized for contemporary luxury markets.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (c. 1970-1990). Part of the Mexican Silver Renaissance where manufacturers like Tane elevated souvenir-grade silver to world-class luxury art.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1995 based on the style of the 'MT-01' registration mark and the naturalistic fruit motif popular during this period.
Cultural Significance
The pomegranate is a traditional symbol of fertility and abundance in Hispanic culture. Tane’s elevation of this form into silver represents the fusion of Mexican botanical heritage with sophisticated European silversmithing standards.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. Notable tarnish/oxidation around the calyx and neck. Minor surface scratches consistent with use. The red string around the neck is non-original and should be removed to inspect for solder integrity. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Values fluctuate based on the specific size and whether it is part of a set; Tane items command a significant premium over generic Mexican silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality cream polish like Wright’s. Avoid dips that can strip the protective oxidation in the textured top. Use a soft horsehair brush for the crevices of the calyx.
Similar Pieces
Taxco silver pomegranates (often lighter and less refined); Tiffany & Co. silver fruit (more minimalist); Gorham naturalistic card holders (often smaller and cast rather than raised).
Interesting Facts
Tane pieces are frequently used as official state gifts by the Mexican government for visiting dignitaries and royalty, including the British Royal Family.