Israeli Sterling Silver Pomegranate Spice Box or Miniature Figurine
Judaica / Decorative Object · Unidentified Israeli Silversmith. Various workshops in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, such as Hazorfim or Hadad Brothers, frequently produce similar pomegranate-inspired ritual objects.
Pattern: Traditional Pomegranate Motif; widely used in Jewish ceremonial art for centuries and popularized in modern form during the late 20th century.
Type
Judaica / Decorative Object
Maker
Unidentified Israeli Silversmith. Various workshops in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, such as Hazorfim or Hadad Brothers, frequently produce similar pomegranate-inspired ritual objects.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) indicated by the circular stamp. Likely hollow-form construction with a solid silver crown.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 cm in height; weight likely between 15-30 grams depending on whether it is weighted or true hollowware.
Description
A charming and symbolic sterling silver representation of a pomegranate, one of the seven species of the Land of Israel. The piece features a smooth, high-shine spherical base and a realistic calyx (crown) at the top. It serves as a symbol of abundance and righteousness.
Key Features
Diagnostic circular silver stamp on the lower body; realistic botanical crown; smooth seamless body transition.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) indicated by the circular stamp. Likely hollow-form construction with a solid silver crown.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on a smooth, bulbous body; naturalistic crown detailing; no engraving or monograms. Minimalist Modernist aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A circular '925' and 'ST' or Hebrew silver mark. This specific stamped layout is characteristic of Late 20th Century Israeli export silver standards.
Construction Details
Spun or die-slapped silver sheet body. The crown is separately cast and soldered to the top neck. This is a mix of machine-aided and hand-finished assembly.
Functional Features
If the crown or base unscrews, it serves as a Besamim (Spice Box) for Havdalah; if sealed, it is a decorative miniature or 'Blessing Pomegranate'.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the serrated crown acts as the primary tactile point for opening if it is a container.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial quality. The soldering of the crown to the body shows good alignment, and the polishing has removed most factory tooling marks.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' stamp in a round cartouche is consistent with contemporary jewelry and small-scale hollowware from Israel. Wear patterns are consistent with soft sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel. Known for high-quality sterling silver production specifically for the Jewish diaspora, combining ancient symbols with modern industrial techniques.
Era & Period
Modern (post-1960s). The sleek, unadorned surface reflects contemporary Judaica trends compared to older, ornate filigree styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010. The clarity of the stamp and the condition of the metal suggest a contemporary vintage piece.
Cultural Significance
A deep symbol of fertility, prosperity, and the Jewish New Year. Represents the continuity of Jewish silversmithing traditions in a modernized state.
Condition Notes
Good condition; showing minor tarnishing at the crown and light surface scratches consistent with handling. No visible dents or crushed areas. Red thread suggests it may have been used as a hanging ornament.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD based on weight, silver content, and current market demand for small Judaica collectibles.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and mild silver polish such as Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid chemical dips which can damage the crevices in the crown.
Similar Pieces
Filigree Pomegranates by Yemenite-Israeli smiths (more intricate); Tiffany & Co. silver fruit models (higher prestige, different marks).
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) in the Torah, making it a popular gift for Rosh Hashanah.