Sterling Silver Tray, Square Signature — approx. 45×45 cm, Palmettes

Each of the four sides features a palmette in the center—that fan-shaped leaf motif invented in antiquity and rediscovered during the Renaissance. Unlike continuous tendrils, it is strictly symmetrical, and that is precisely what suits the square: the rim gains a rhythm instead of a uniform band.

At a Glance

• Square serving tray made of 925 sterling silver
• Dimensions approx. 45 × 45 cm — silver weight approx. 2.1 kg
• A three-dimensional palmette in the center of each side
• Four richly adorned corners with acanthus volutes
• Densely chased rim between the motifs
• Smooth center with rounded corners
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufactory since 1948

The Palmette as a Structuring Element

A continuously and uniformly chased rim is serene, yet also arbitrary—the eye finds no anchor. This tray sets four accents: a palmette in the center of each side, the fan-shaped leaf that has adorned buildings and objects since Greek antiquity. Dense tendrils run between the palmettes, and strong acanthus volutes sit at the corners.

This creates a clear order: four corners, four mid-sides, with the surface in between. One takes in the rim at a glance, instead of having to trace it.

The entire piece is hand-chased—driven into the silver with punches, stroke by stroke. The palmettes and corners are raised higher than the tendrils in between; this difference in height is only achieved through manual work.

Material and Origin

For a piece of this craftsmanship, the material determines its feasibility: the chased rim would not be possible on a plated item—it would tear during the chasing process. And a tray that is used can only withstand polishing if the silver is solid throughout. It is hallmarked by the manufactory in Italy.

Zaramella Argenti has been working in Padua since 1948. Their signature is the richly chased line of the house.

What it is used for

Approx. 45 × 45 cm can hold a carafe with six to eight glasses, a coffee service for six, an appetizer platter, or desserts in small bowls. At a reception, it can carry filled glasses in one go.

As a stationary element on a sideboard, it gathers what would otherwise be scattered—a carafe, glasses, a candlestick. The four palmettes frame the arrangement, appearing consistent from every side.

The Corners

At the four corners are strong acanthus volutes—rolled leaf forms that extend beyond the straight edge. They are the antithesis to the palmettes in the middle of the sides: where the palmette is flatly presented, the volute is three-dimensionally rolled.

For practical use, this has an advantage. A tray of this size is held by its corners, and there the volutes provide more material and more grip. The rim becomes more stable precisely where it is stressed.

Engraving

The center is free of ornamentation and generously sized. A centered monogram or crest adopts the quadruple symmetry of the rim; a multi-line dedication also finds space. Engraving upon request, scale and position are coordinated in advance. Upon request, we will include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, currently free of charge.

Occasions

For weddings, silver anniversaries, or jubilees. As a gift to business partners, with an engraved logo centered on the mirror and framed by the chased rim. As a communal gift from multiple givers.

Material in Use

Silver changes when used—and that is desirable. The raised areas, touched by hands and cloths, remain bright. The depressions between the tendrils darken because no one reaches them. This difference creates the depth that distinguishes old silverware from new.

A piece that sits in a cabinet for decades will tarnish uniformly and appear dull. One that remains in use gains contrast. Therefore, the best care for a tray of this type is not polishing, but using it.

Care

By hand with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly. No dishwasher—cleaning salts attack silver, and moisture would remain in the deeper parts of the palmettes. A soft brush is suitable for the depressions. Tarnishing is a normal reaction with sulfur from the air and is reversible with a silver cloth; the darker tone can remain in the depths, making the relief three-dimensional. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver dinnerware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a palmette?

A fan-shaped leaf motif from ancient ornamentation. On silverware, it structures long edges and sets accents at the mid-sides.

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver with approx. 2.1 kg material weight, not plated, with official Italian hallmark.

Can I serve food directly on it?

Yes, 925 silver is suitable for food contact. For acidic foods, we recommend an interlayer and prompt cleaning.

Is the tray available in other sizes?

Yes—smaller than approx. 42×42 cm, larger than approx. 48×48 cm with tendril rim or with shell rim.

Is it delivered in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

Where it stands in the collection

At approx. 45×45 cm, this tray sits between the square one at approx. 42×42 cm and the two large 48 cm formats: the tray with a tendril rim and the one with a shell rim.

The palmette—that fan-shaped leaf motif that gives the piece its name—is the oldest ornament in this selection. It can be found on Greek temples as well as on neoclassical furniture. Unlike tendrils or shells, it is strictly symmetrical, which suits the square base form.

The manufacturer lists it as a 2018 model—one of the newer designs within the Signature line, which is evident in its understated rim construction.

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Further formats among the silver trays, the entire assortment in table silver & silver dinnerware. All pieces from the line are grouped together in the Signature by Zaramella category.