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

The largest Kiddush plate in the line – and thus the most versatile: This surface not only holds a cup but an entire small place setting. Partially gilded acanthus leaves emerge from darkly patinated silver; because gold does not tarnish and silver darkens over time, the pattern becomes more pronounced over 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 gilded acanthus leaves at the four corners
• Dark patinated base, densely chased tendrils
• Round depression as a cup stand
• Signature23 edition
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufactory since 1948

The Larger Format

With an edge length of approximately 20.5 cm, this plate is significantly larger than the usual Kiddush plate. This changes its role on the table: It not only holds the cup but also provides a clear space around it.

On a fully set Shabbat table — with candles, challah under the cloth, dishes for the whole family — this is its real purpose. The cup doesn't stand among everything else, but on its own island. Whoever recites the blessing can reach for it without searching.

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

Partial Gilding and Patina

At the four corners are gilded acanthus leaves, while the rest of the surface remains silver. In silversmithing, this is called partial gilding — the plate is first fully chased, then the areas that are to remain silver are covered, and only the exposed parts are gilded. Every leaf edge must be cleanly delimited.

The background between the tendrils is intentionally oxidized, i.e., darkened. This contrast is what makes the dense ornament legible and brings out the golden leaves. In candlelight — and that's when the plate is usually on the table — the effect is most pronounced.

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

Material and Origin

A silver-plated piece could not be produced in this way — the plating would tear under the hallmark. And it cannot be polished indefinitely, as the layer would become thinner. Solid silver tolerates both: the craftsmanship in its creation and the care over generations. The Italian hallmark of the manufactory certifies it.

Zaramella Argenti has been manufacturing in Padua since 1948. The Signature line is the richly chased hallmark of the house; Signature23 is its variant with partial gilding.

The Kiddush

The Kiddush — "sanctification" — inaugurates Shabbat and holidays. The blessing is recited over a cup of wine filled to the brim; the abundance symbolizes overflowing blessing. The plate catches any spills.

It is thus not an accessory but part of the ritual — and the piece that remains on the table while the cup makes its rounds.

As an Addition

Kiddush cups are often heirlooms. The matching plate is often missing — it was never included or was lost over generations. A separately available plate is therefore an obvious gift for someone who already owns the cup.

With this format, an additional benefit is that it also fits larger cups for which a small plate would be too small.

Engraving

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

Care

Wash by hand with warm water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly. No dishwasher. No polishing paste on the dark areas — it would remove the intentional oxidation and make the ornament appear flat. On the gilded leaves, only wipe dry, as gold is soft. Wipe off wine residue promptly. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver dinnerware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every Kiddush cup fit on it?

With an edge length of approximately 20.5 cm and a generous depression, even a larger cup will fit. For a particularly wide base, please contact us, and we will check the dimensions.

Are the dark areas tarnish?

No, they are intentionally oxidized to give the ornament depth and to make the gilded leaves stand out.

Is there a matching cup?

Yes — the partially gilded Kiddush cup, approx. 9 cm from the same model group. Both together are available as a partially gilded Kiddush set.

Can I use the plate for other purposes?

Yes. It can hold pastries or chocolates and serve as a tray on a dresser.

Does it come in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

The Counterpart and the Set

This plate was made for the partially gilded Kiddush cup; both belong to the Signature 23 model group and together form the partially gilded Kiddush set.

With an edge length of approximately 20.5 cm, it is the largest Kiddush plate in the line — noticeably more surface area than the plate with approx. 16×16 cm or the round one with approx. 17 cm. This also makes it the most versatile: This surface not only holds a cup but also a place setting consisting of a cup and a small pastry plate.

The partial gilding follows the ornament. Because gold does not tarnish, the pattern becomes more pronounced over the years, while the silver areas darken — a piece that visibly ages without losing value.

You might also be interested in

Other ritual objects in the category Judaica made of 925 silver, the entire line under Signature by Zaramella. What other pieces belong on the Shabbat table can be found in Silver at the Jewish table.