Mayim Achronim Set 925 Silver Signature — Pitcher and Bowl

A small ewer with a gilded spout, standing in its own footed bowl. The set is intended for Mayim Achronim — the handwashing after the meal, for which one does not go to a sink but remains at the table.

At a Glance

• Mayim Achronim set made of 925 sterling silver
• Ewer approx. 9 cm, bowl approx. 10.5 cm high with approx. 15 cm diameter
• Total silver weight approx. 0.35 kg
• Gilded spout, chased zones on ewer and foot
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufacture since 1948

Why ewer and bowl belong together

Mayim Achronim literally means "last water" and refers to the ritual washing of the fingers after a meal. Unlike the handwashing before bread, it takes place at the table — one does not stand up.

This dictates the design. It requires a vessel for pouring that is small enough to be passed around the table. And it requires a catch basin because there is no sink nearby. Both are combined here into a set: The ewer stands in the bowl when not in use, and the bowl catches the water when it is needed.

On a table with dishes and glasses, this is a practical solution — the set takes up barely more space than a wine glass.

The Footed Bowl

The bowl stands on a foot instead of flat on the table. There are two reasons for this: It is easier to lift and pass around, and the foot keeps the bottom away from the tablecloth if drops run down the outside.

Its rim is widely flared so that nothing spills during pouring. Inside, it remains smooth — whatever comes into contact with water should be able to dry without leaving residue.

The gilded spout

The spout of the ewer is gilded. Gold does not react with water, and the spout in particular is the place where a residue always remains. On silver, a dull edge would form there over time — not on gold.

Visually, the gilding also emphasizes the important part: the one from which the water comes.

Material and Origin

For a piece passed down through generations, the difference to silver-plated goods is crucial: a plating wears off, solid silver does not. It can be polished again and again, and the ornament — which can only be created in solid silver — remains intact. The Italian hallmark certifies it.

Zaramella Argenti has been manufacturing in Padua since 1948. The ornaments of the Signature line are chased — hand-driven into the silver with punches. On a piece of this size, the ornament is in narrow bands; the other surfaces remain polished so that they can be easily dried.

As a Gift

For a wedding, a housewarming, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. A Mayim Achronim set is a gift for households that already have the basic equipment — it belongs to those pieces that one rarely buys oneself and therefore appreciates all the more.

For hosts who regularly celebrate Shabbat, it is a visible sign of thoughtfulness: the giver knows the ritual.

Engraving

The polished zones on the ewer and bowl foot can accommodate a discreet engraving — a monogram, a date. With a set, usually only one part is engraved. We will coordinate this with you in advance. Upon request, we will include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, currently free of charge.

Care

Hand wash with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly — both parts, inside and out. No dishwasher: cleaning salts attack silver and would damage the gilding. Empty and dry after use; standing water is the only real enemy. Only wipe dry on the gilded spout. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver dinnerware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mayim Achronim?

Literally "last water" — the ritual washing of the fingers after a meal. It takes place at the table, which is why a catch basin is included.

How does it differ from a Netilat vessel?

The Netilat vessel is larger, has two handles, and is used for washing before bread — over a basin. This set is smaller, comes with a catch basin, and is passed around the table after the meal.

Are both parts included?

Yes, ewer and bowl belong together.

Is the set kosher?

We carry silver ritual objects and describe their use — we cannot provide religious legal opinions. Questions about ritual suitability should be directed to your community.

Is it delivered in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

The difference that is often confused

Two vessels for two different moments of the same meal:

• the Netilat vessel — larger, with two handles, before bread, over a basin
• this set — ewer with catch basin, after the meal, passed around the table

The bowl dictates the entire design: Because the water must be caught at the set table, the ewer is small and the bowl is shallow. A Netilat vessel with a liter capacity would be unusable here.

Other pieces for the same table: the Challah plate, the Kiddush set, and, for the Seder night, the Seder plate.

Ewer and bowl form a small still life when not in use. Placed together on a tray or in a display cabinet, they create an ensemble that is more impressive than each part individually — and both are together when they come to the table.

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Other ritual objects in the category Judaica made of 925 silver, the entire line under Signature by Zaramella. Why there are two different vessels for handwashing is explained in Silver at the Jewish Table.