Greek Orthodox Silver Ovoid Egg with Tree of Jesse Repoussé
Decorative Object (Religious Iconographic Egg) · Unknown Greek Silversmith Workshop (Post-Byzantine tradition). Typical of workshops in Thessaloniki or Ioannina, Greece, which specialize in liturgical and ecclesiastical silver.
Pattern: Tree of Jesse (The Genealogy of Christ); part of a series of celebratory Paschal (Easter) icons.
Type
Decorative Object (Religious Iconographic Egg)
Maker
Unknown Greek Silversmith Workshop (Post-Byzantine tradition). Typical of workshops in Thessaloniki or Ioannina, Greece, which specialize in liturgical and ecclesiastical silver.
Material
Likely Silver-plated Copper or low-grade Silver (800 or 925). The base metal shows characteristic darker patina in recessed areas suggesting a 'sterling silver over copper' or '925 silver' construction common in Greek souvenir and liturgical art.
Dimensions
Approximately 10-12 cm in height (4-5 inches). Estimated weight: 200-350 grams depending on whether the core is hollow or resin-filled (a common practice for durability).
Description
A striking and tactile example of Greek ecclesiastical silver art, this ovoid egg serves as a 'portable icon.' It depicts the Tree of Jesse, a complex iconographic motif showing the descent of Jesus from Jesse, the father of King David. The craftsmanship utilizes dramatic play between light-catching raised figures and darkened, recessed backgrounds, creating a three-dimensional narrative that wraps around the entire curve of the object.
Key Features
Tree of Jesse iconography; Greek inscription; ovoid form; high-relief repoussé; antiqued oxidation; ovoid silhouette consistent with Eastern Orthodox Easter traditions.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-plated Copper or low-grade Silver (800 or 925). The base metal shows characteristic darker patina in recessed areas suggesting a 'sterling silver over copper' or '925 silver' construction common in Greek souvenir and liturgical art.
Finish & Decoration
Heavy repoussé and chasing. The surface features an oxidized/antiqued finish to highlight the deep relief of the biblical figures. It depicts the 'Tree of Jesse' with Christ enthroned at the top, surrounded by prophets and ancestors in the branches of a vine.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A partial inscription in Greek characters (HE ANB...) is visible near the top curve. Likely includes a '925' or '800' purity stamp and a maker's registration number (e.g., '1475') required by Greek law since the late 20th century.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck or electroformed from two halves, joined by a central seam. The high relief is achieved through industrial pressing of thin silver sheets, followed by hand-finishing or chemical patination.
Functional Features
Ovoid decorative object primarily used as a religious icon or Easter table centerpiece. Some versions are hinged to serve as boxes, but this appears to be a static, display-only ovoid.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the item is designed to be handheld or displayed on a small tripod stand (not pictured). Material is uniform metal throughout.
Craftsmanship Details
The piece displays high-quality die-work. The alignment of the figures within the complex vine patterns shows a high degree of artistic coordination, typical of professional Greek silversmithing workshops.
Authentication Indicators
The Greek lettering is the primary indicator of origin. The seam line at the side and the depth of the relief suggest modern production techniques (electroforming/die-striking) rather than 19th-century hand-raising.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece. Produced in specialized workshops that maintain the traditional silver-smithing heritage of the Epirus or Macedonian regions.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (Modern Greek Revival). It utilizes Byzantine stylistic indicators (14th-century iconographic style) produced for the modern religious market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980–2010. The crispness of the relief and the specific type of chemical oxidation are indicative of late-20th-century manufacturing.
Cultural Significance
Represents the continuity of Byzantine art in the modern era. The 'Tree of Jesse' motif is a classic theological bridge between the Old and New Testaments, frequently seen in cathedral frescoes and now adapted for domestic devotional objects.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There is some surface tarnish and light scratching. Some wear to the silvering on the high points of the relief may indicate a plated composition rather than solid alloy. No visible dents or structural splits. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$75.00 - $185.00 USD. Value is driven by the religious subject matter and silver weight rather than a specific 'designer' name, unless hallmarked by a famous house like Lalaounis or Zolotas.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft, dry cotton cloth. Avoid liquid silver dips, as they will strip the dark oxidation in the crevices that provides the artistic depth. Store in a dry environment to prevent excessive sulfur buildup.
Similar Pieces
Russian Fabergé-style eggs (usually enameled); Sterling silver repoussé eggs by makers like 'Ilias Lalaounis' (more stylized/modernist); Italian '925' resin-filled icons.
Interesting Facts
In the Orthodox tradition, the egg symbolizes the tomb of Christ and the promised Resurrection. Silver eggs like these are often gifted during Pascha (Easter) to serve as family heirlooms.