Michael Aram Pomegranate Finial Decor in Copper/Rose Gold Plate over Metal
Decorative Object / Sculptural Figurine · Michael Aram, Inc. (American lifestyle designer born 1963). The brand is globally recognized for merging fine art with functional objects, often employing traditional hand-crafting techniques from India.
Pattern: Pomegranate Collection; introduced in the late 1990s and remains a core perennial design for the brand.
Type
Decorative Object / Sculptural Figurine
Maker
Michael Aram, Inc. (American lifestyle designer born 1963). The brand is globally recognized for merging fine art with functional objects, often employing traditional hand-crafting techniques from India.
Material
Base metal (typically brass or zinc alloy) finished with a high-polish copper-tone or rose-gold-tone electroplating. It is not solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Estimated at 3.5 inches tall by 3 inches wide. Weight is likely between 200-350 grams depending on whether the core is solid or hollow-cast.
Description
A striking sculptural representation of a pomegranate, this piece captures the lush symbolism of the fruit through an undulating, organic form and a warm, coppery glow. Michael Aram's work is celebrated for its 'imperfect' look, which celebrates the beauty of nature rather than industrial precision.
Key Features
Distinctive calyx 'crown' top, organic irregular geometry, signature circular maker's mark on the body of the fruit, and a warm-toned metallic finish.
Material & Composition
Base metal (typically brass or zinc alloy) finished with a high-polish copper-tone or rose-gold-tone electroplating. It is not solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished finish with a rich copper/rose-gold hue. The form is highly organic and irregular, simulating the natural lumpy texture of a ripening fruit, topped with a distinctive crenelated crown (calyx) finial.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The circular logo stamp on the front face consists of the 'Michael Aram' name or artist monogram, typically stamped into the metal to signify authenticity within the manufacturer's line.
Construction Details
Cast metal construction, likely using the sand or lost-wax casting method followed by extensive machine and hand polishing before the final electroplating process.
Functional Features
Primarily decorative; often used as a paperweight, table ornament, or a symbolic finial for larger serving pieces within the collection.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the calyx (crown) at the top serves as a decorative grip point but is not a functional handle.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-polished surface indicates a finish that requires significant labor, though the base is a mass-produced cast form. The solder line for the crown is well-integrated, showing good factory-tier quality control.
Authentication Indicators
The circular recessed maker's mark is the primary indicator of authenticity. The weight and luster are consistent with Aram's commercial decorative line rather than a fine jewelry piece.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in New York, United States; manufactured in Michael Aram’s dedicated workshop in New Delhi, India, utilizing local metalworking traditions.
Era & Period
Contemporary Lifestyle / Post-Modern Craft Movement (C. 1990s - Present). It blends organic naturalism with modern luxury aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 2005-2020. The stamp design and plating color are consistent with production from the last two decades.
Cultural Significance
Aram’s pomegranate pieces are frequently used as gifts for weddings, housewarmings, and religious holidays (like Rosh Hashanah) due to the fruit's association with abundance and blessings.
Condition Notes
Very Good Condition. The surface shows light micro-scratches and fingerprints typical of mirrored finishes. No evidence of plating loss or deep pitting is visible in the image.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD depending on current retail availability and secondary market demand for specific sizes.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive silver polishes which can strip the thin copper/gold electroplating. Clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid exposure to acidic foods or liquids that could corrode the finish.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen organic silver figurines (more minimalist), Tiffany & Co. silver fruit (more realistic), or Aram's own 'Gold Pomegranate' which features a yellow-gold finish instead of copper.
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is one of Michael Aram's most iconic motifs, chosen for its universal symbolism of life, rebirth, and fertility across many cultures including Mediterranean and Middle Eastern traditions.