Netilat Yadajim 925 Silver Signature — Handwashing Vessel with Two Handles

The two handles are not ornamental — they are the reason this vessel looks the way it does. During the ritual handwashing before bread, it passes from one hand to the other, and the hand that has already been washed should not touch the handle again. Two handles solve this problem.

At a Glance

• Vessel for Netilat Yadayim made of 925 sterling silver
• Height approx. 16 cm — silver weight approx. 0.59 kg
• Two opposing handles
• Chased body on four volute feet
• Gilt interior
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufacture since 1948

Why Two Handles

Netilat Yadayim is the ritual handwashing that precedes the blessing over bread. The procedure is precisely defined: The vessel is filled with water, and with the right hand, the left hand is washed twice. Then, it switches — the left hand washes the right hand twice.

This very change explains the design. A vessel with only one handle would have to be put down and picked up again; with two opposing handles, it is simply picked up with the other hand. Form follows function, not taste.

This also shows that it is not an ordinary pitcher: Two handles on a pouring vessel otherwise make no sense.

The Gilt Interior

The vessel stands filled and is used regularly. Standing water and silver do not get along in the long run — the inner wall would become dull, and it can hardly be polished.

Gold does not react. The internal gilding is therefore common for vessels of this type and has been for a long time; it is function, not ostentation.

Where It Stands

Not on the dining table, but where the washing takes place: at a sink, on a side table, near the entrance to the dining room. For larger gatherings, it is passed around or placed in a fixed spot where guests go one by one.

Because it remains visible, it is traditionally made of good material. An object that all present take in their hands before the meal is one that is not designed casually.

Material and Origin

For a piece that is passed down through generations, the difference to silver-plated ware is crucial: A coating wears off, solid silver does not. It can be polished again and again, and the ornament — which can only be chased in solid silver — remains intact. The vessel is hallmarked.

Zaramella Argenti has been manufacturing in Padua since 1948. The ornaments of the Signature line are chased: hand-driven into the silver with punches. The body rests on four curled volute feet, which lift it from the ground.

As a Gift

For a wedding, when a household is created and needs its own equipment for the first time. For a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. For moving into a new home.

Unlike equipment that is used once a year, this is in weekly use — it accompanies every Shabbat and every meal with bread. This makes it a gift that is appreciated, instead of sitting in a display case.

Engraving

The smooth zones below the handles and the foot rim accommodate an engraving. A name with a date can be placed there. We will advise you beforehand on placement and size. Upon request, we will include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, free of charge.

Care

By hand with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly — including the inside. No dishwasher: cleaning salts attack silver and would damage the gilding. After use, empty and dry; standing water is the only real enemy. Tarnishing affects the outside and is reversible with a silver cloth; in the chased depressions, the darker depth can remain. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver dinnerware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does it have two handles?

Because the hand is switched during handwashing: first the right hand washes the left, then vice versa. Two opposing handles make it possible to switch without putting the vessel down.

How much does it hold?

Enough for the complete procedure. We can tell you the exact volume upon request.

Does it need a bowl?

For Netilat, washing is done over a bowl or basin — a separate bowl is not part of the vessel. This is different from the Mayim Achronim set, which comes with a catch basin because it is used at the table.

Is it kosher?

We carry silver items and describe their use — we cannot provide religious legal information. Questions about ritual suitability should be answered by your community.

Is it delivered in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

What else belongs to handwashing

This vessel is used for Netilat Yadayim, the ritual handwashing before bread. The two handles are the reason for its design: The vessel is switched from one hand to the other during washing, and the hand that has already been washed should not touch the handle again.

It should not be confused with the Mayim Achronim set: That one is smaller, comes with a catch basin, and is passed around the table — for handwashing after the meal. Both vessels serve different purposes and do not replace each other.

The same table includes the Challah plate for the bread and the Kiddush cups for the blessing over wine. The complete selection is available under Judaica made of 925 silver.

You might also be interested in

Further ritual objects in the category Judaica made of 925 silver, the entire line under Signature by Zaramella. Why hands are washed before bread is described in Silver at the Jewish Table.