Modernist Stylized Pomegranate Silver Decorative Figurine
Decorative Object / Paperweight · Attributed to various Israeli or Mexican silversmiths (e.g., Hazorfim, Nadav, or Taxco region); often sold through boutique Judaica or high-end gift retailers.
Pattern: Naturalistic Fruit Series (Pomegranate form); various iterations exist in global silversmithing traditions.
Type
Decorative Object / Paperweight
Maker
Attributed to various Israeli or Mexican silversmiths (e.g., Hazorfim, Nadav, or Taxco region); often sold through boutique Judaica or high-end gift retailers.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate over copper/brass. The warm, reddish hue suggests significant copper tarnish or gold-wash (Vermeil) that has aged over time.
Dimensions
Standard small decorative size; approximately 2.5 to 3.5 inches in diameter; estimated weight of 80–150 grams depending on whether the piece is hollow or weighted.
Description
This elegant silver pomegranate captures the essence of the ancient fruit through a sleek, modernist lens. Featuring a smooth, bulbous body and a distinctive flared calyx crown, the piece reflects light brilliantly across its curved surfaces. Its warm, coppery-pink patina adds a layer of depth to the silver, suggesting a rich history of display in a sunlit environment.
Key Features
The most distinguishing feature is the stylized 'crown' calyx and the seamless, organic transition between the fruit's body and its top. The high-mirror polish is a hallmark of decorative silver fruit.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate over copper/brass. The warm, reddish hue suggests significant copper tarnish or gold-wash (Vermeil) that has aged over time.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a modernist, minimalist aesthetic. The form relies on silhouette rather than surface engraving, featuring a stylized crown (calyx).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the base with '925', 'Sterling', or a maker's mark. In the provided image, marks are not visible as the object is upright on its side.
Construction Details
Spun or electroformed hollow construction. The calyx appears cast and applied, or part of a two-piece press-mold assembly that has been expertly seamless-soldered and polished.
Functional Features
Standalone decorative ornament; serves as a paperweight, tabletop accent, or a symbolic object in cultural ceremonies.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles present; the ergonomic bulbous body is designed for handheld tactile feel or static display.
Craftsmanship Details
The quality of the mirror finish and the hidden seams indicate high-quality industrial silversmithing where machine-forming is finished with skilled hand-polishing.
Authentication Indicators
The weight-to-size ratio and the presence of a 'breather hole' (often found on hollow silver objects to prevent bursting during soldering) would confirm its hollow-ware construction. Purity stamps should be on the bottom.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Israel (traditional symbol) or Mexico (high-volume silver decorative production). Modern workshop traditions focus on seamless high-polish finishes.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (Late 20th Century to early 21st Century). The minimalist, smooth execution is indicative of mid-to-late 20th-century design trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980–2010. The condition and tarnish pattern suggest a piece that has been on display for several decades.
Cultural Significance
A popular gift for weddings and Rosh Hashanah, this item bridges the gap between traditional religious symbolism and contemporary interior design.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy tarnish with a 'pinking' or bronze-like hue indicating copper bleed-through or surface oxidation. Notable spot of pitting or heavy oxidation on the mid-section.
Value Estimate
$75 – $250 USD. Value varies significantly based on whether the piece is solid sterling silver versus silver plate, and the reputation of the specific maker's mark.
Care & Maintenance
Requires gentle cleaning with a specialized silver foam. Avoid abrasive cloths which will scratch the high-polish finish. Use a silver storage bag to prevent the coppery tarnish from progressing.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen fruit designs (usually more ornate), Buccellati silver fruits (highly textured and realistic), or standard silver-plated giftware from Christofle.
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is a significant symbol in many cultures, representing fertility, abundance, and righteousness. In Jewish tradition, it is said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 commandments.