The Pomegranate: An Ancient Symbol of Fertility, Abundance, and Protection in Global Cultures

The pomegranate is probably one of the most ancient symbols in the world, and it has been used by many cultures in the past. Because it is a symbol with a lot of meaning and great visual impact, it has become one of the most suitable motifs for artisans and ceramic artists.

Pomegranates are a common symbol in the Armenian culture, but they also make an appearance in other cultures. The pomegranate symbolizes many things, including fertility and abundance, as well as being a powerful symbol of the biblical Garden of Eden. Pomegranates are also shown to be a powerful symbol of protection. The fruit can ward off evil and witchcraft, and is the symbol of the goddess Isis. In Ancient Egypt, the pomegranate was associated with the goddess Hathor, who is the protective goddess of motherhood. The pomegranate was also associated with the goddess Aphrodite and the goddess Demeter, who is the goddess of fertility.

ntricate Pomegranate Depictions in Tomb of Nakht (T T 52) - A Stunning Display of Ancient Art and Culture — Depictions of pomegranates in the tomb of Nakht ( T T 52), image: Thierry Benderitter

Female Troubadour with Saz, Page from M6288 Horomos, 1211 AD - A Fascinating Glimpse of Music and Arts in 13th Century Horomos — Female Troubadour with Saz Page from the M6288, Horomos, 1211 AD

Sergei Parajanov: Reviving the Pomegranate as an Icon of Artistic Expression

Pomegranate played a major role in the art of one of Armenia's most influential film directors - Sergei Parajanov. In his films, the pomegranate is not only a symbol of Armenia, but also the embodiment of beauty.

Parajanov was an artist who was ahead of his time. He took an ancient symbol and gave it new life by inspiring others to use it in their own artwork.

From Ruben Stepanyan to Artistic Waves: The Story of Ceramic Pomegranates in Armenia

Many sculptors, painters as well as ceramic artists became a pioneer in their fields by their own way of interpreting pomegranates. In the mid-90s Ruben Stepanyan was the one who started a line of huge ceramic pomegranate revolution in Armenia. Why revolution? Because after his cooperation with the Sergei Parajanov Museum craftsmen all over Armenia started to make ceramic pomegranates too and stores and galleries were filled with this magical symbol of life.

Reach red color and playful shape of the pomegranate crown made Stepanyan's pomegranate the best-interpreted ceramic in the local art scene.

Ruben Stepanyan crafting a pomegranate-shaped ceramic piece on a pottery wheel

Tonino Guerra holding a ceramic pomegranate made by Ruben Stepanyan

Handcrafted Heritage: The Stepanyan-Gishyan Collaboration in Armenia

In the early 2000s, the Gishyan family united with the Stepanyan family to uphold the time-honored tradition of crafting ceramic pomegranates in Armenia.

Combining their talents, they have infused the ancient practice with a contemporary touch, producing each product by hand using natural, locally sourced materials. From the outset of their artistic journey, both families embraced a path of creativity and innovation, breathing new life into the Armenian pomegranate tradition. Today, their collaborative efforts have transformed the iconic symbol into a versatile and aesthetically pleasing element, perfect for adorning modern interiors.

For over 25 years, the Stepanyan and Gishyan families have diligently preserved the essence of the ceramic pomegranate tradition, maintaining its original style and colors throughout the years. This artistic partnership has not only upheld their cultural heritage but also ensured the legacy of Armenian craftsmanship continues to thrive. Their dedication to reviving and modernizing this ancient art form reflects their unwavering commitment to preserving their heritage and showcasing the beauty of Armenian pomegranates to the world.

Mihran Stepanyan, the elder son of Ruben Stepanyan, skillfully working on a pottery wheel

Pomegranates by Stepanyan and Gishyan family

Ruben Stemanyan junior working on a pottery wheel

Pomegranates by the Sea: A Tale of Artistic Serenity in Croatia

Ceramic pomegranates discovered a new essence when Alina Gishyan ventured to Croatia, where her dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail elevated each creation to exceptional standards. Delicately painted with pure gold, certain pomegranates acquired an added touch of elegance with golden edges. However, what truly distinguishes Alina's collection is the genuine uniqueness of every individual piece, carefully handcrafted on the pottery wheel, ensuring that no replicas exist. Inspired by the tranquil beauty of the Croatian seaside, the pomegranates come to life adorned in captivating hues of turquoise, blue, and white. Alina modestly explains that her artistic process flows with intuition, granting the pomegranates the freedom to manifest their own appearance without any predefined sketches or rigid plans. It almost feels as if these exquisite creations were destined to find their place in Croatia, serving as a beautiful bridge between her native Armenia and this new artistic voyage. Alina's works symbolize the shared essence and cultural embrace of both countries through the simple yet profound art of the pomegranate.

Vibrant turquoise pomegranates, an artwork by Alina Gishyan. — Vibrant turquoise pomegranates by Alina Gishyan

The mission of every artist is to spread beauty and love, and these families and individuals are doing that by filling the world with the exquisite energy of pomegranate. 

Whether you're in a gallery, a museum, or your own home, art comes alive and requires an owner to think about it. Its ability to thrive depends on the amount of attention it receives.

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Armenian ornamental ceramic art after 10th century