Kiddush Plate 925 Silver Signature23 — approx. 20.5×20.5 cm

The largest Kiddush plate in the collection — and thus the most versatile: this surface accommodates not just a cup, but a complete small place setting. Partially gold-plated acanthus leaves emerge from dark patinated silver; because gold does not tarnish and silver darkens over time, the pattern becomes more distinct throughout the years.

At a glance

• Kiddush plate made of 925 sterling silver
• Dimensions approx. 20.5 × 20.5 cm — silver weight approx. 0.61 kg
• Partially gold-plated acanthus leaves at the four corners
• Dark patinated background, densely chased tendrils
• Round indentation as a cup rest
• Signature23 design
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — manufacture since 1948

The larger format

With an edge length of approx. 20.5 cm, this plate is significantly larger than the standard Kiddush plate. This changes its role on the table: it does not just hold the cup, but keeps an area clear around it.

On a fully set Shabbat table — with candles, loaves under the cover, and tableware for the whole family — this is its actual purpose. The cup does not stand among everything else, but on its own island. Whoever recites the blessing can grasp it without having to search.

For everyday use, the format is generous; for holidays, it is just right.

Partial gilding and patina

Gilded acanthus leaves are placed at the four corners, while the remaining surface remains silver. In silversmithing, this is called partial gilding — the plate is finished and chased first, then the surfaces to remain silver are covered, and only the exposed areas are gilded. Every leaf edge must be clearly defined in this process.

The background between the tendrils is deliberately oxidized, or darkened. It is this contrast that makes the dense ornament legible and allows the golden leaves to stand out. By candlelight — which is when the plate is usually on the table — the effect is most striking.

The dark zones are intentional. They should be preserved during cleaning.

Material and origin

A silver-plated piece could not be crafted this way — the plating would crack under the hallmark. And it cannot be repolished indefinitely, because the layer becomes thinner. Solid silver withstands both: the chasing work during its creation and the care over generations.

Zaramella Argenti has been manufacturing in Padua since 1948. The Signature collection represents the house's richly chased signature style; Signature23 is their variant with partial gilding.

The Kiddush

The Kiddush — "sanctification" — opens Shabbat and holidays. The blessing is recited over a cup filled to the brim with wine; the fullness symbolizes overflowing blessing. The plate catches whatever spills over.

It is therefore not an accessory, but part of the ritual — and the piece that remains on the table while the cup is passed around.

As a supplement

Kiddush cups are often inherited. The matching plate is then often missing — it was never included or has been lost over the generations. A plate available individually is therefore a natural gift for someone who already possesses the cup.

With this format, there is an added benefit: it also fits larger cups for which a small plate would be too cramped.

Engraving

The smooth center is covered when the cup is placed on it; for a visible dedication, the back is suitable after review. We will coordinate the placement and size with you in advance. Upon request, we will include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, free of charge.

Care

By hand with warm water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly. No dishwasher. No polishing paste on the dark parts — it would remove the intentional oxidation and make the ornament appear flat. Only wipe the gilded leaves dry; gold is soft. Wipe away wine residues promptly. More in our guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver tableware.

Frequently asked questions

Does every Kiddush cup fit on it?

With an edge length of approx. 20.5 cm and a generous indentation, even a larger cup will find a place. For a particularly wide base, please contact us, and we will check the dimensions.

Are the dark spots tarnish?

No, they are deliberately oxidized so that the ornament gains depth and the gilded leaves stand out.

Is there a matching cup for it?

Yes — the partially gold-plated Kiddush cup, approx. 9 cm from the same model group. We offer both together as a partially gold-plated Kiddush set.

Can I use the plate for other purposes?

Yes. It can hold cookies or chocolates and serves as a tray on a dresser.

Is it delivered in a gift box?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

The counterpart and the set

This plate was crafted for the partially gold-plated Kiddush cup; both belong to the Signature 23 model group and together form the partially gold-plated Kiddush set.

With an edge length of approx. 20.5 cm, it is the largest Kiddush plate in the collection — noticeably more surface area than the plate measuring approx. 16×16 cm or the round one with approx. 17 cm. This also makes it the most versatile: this surface can hold not just a cup, but also a place setting consisting of a cup and a small snack plate.

The partial gilding follows the ornament. Because gold does not tarnish, the pattern stands out more clearly over the years, while the silver zones darken — a piece that ages visibly without losing its value.

You might also be interested in

Further ritual objects in the category Judaica in 925 silver, the entire collection under Signature by Zaramella. Which other pieces belong on the Shabbat table can be found in Silver at the Jewish Table.