Silver tray 925 silver signature square — approx. 48×48 cm, tendril border

The frosted background is the actual feature here: a roughened surface scatters the light instead of reflecting it — the tendrils thus stand out without needing to be deeply embossed. On a polished surface, the same ornament would be lost in reflections.

At a Glance

• Large square serving tray made of 925 sterling silver
• Measures approx. 48 × 48 cm — silver weight approx. 2.1 kg
• Scalloped arch contour on all four sides and corners
• Rim continuously chased: tendrils with individual blossoms on a frosted background
• Large smooth mirror with rounded corners
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufacture since 1948

Tendril on Frosted Background

The ornament of this tray employs a trick that is only visible up close: the tendrils themselves are polished and gleaming, while the background behind them is frosted — roughened with fine punch marks. The contrast between the gleaming ornament and the matte background makes the tendril stand out without needing to be particularly high in relief.

The technique is called chasing: the pattern is hand-punched into the silver, and the frosting is done with a special, fine-grained punch. Both are handmade, and that's precisely why no two surfaces are exactly alike.

Between the tendrils are individual, calmly placed blossoms — they provide breathing room within the dense tendril work. The arched contour of the rim follows the movement of the ornament instead of opposing it with a straight edge.

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 punching. And a tray that is used only tolerates polishing if the silver is solid throughout. It is hallmarked by the manufacturer in Italy.

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

The Format

Approx. 48 × 48 cm — this can hold a carafe with eight glasses, a complete coffee service for six, or a large cheese selection. On a square dining table, it matches the table's shape; on a long table, it creates a focal point in the center.

It's too large for everyday use by two people. It's a piece for occasions when more people are at the table — and in between, an object on the sideboard that doesn't need to be put away.

Square on the Table

The square is the organizing shape on the table. It aligns with table edges, it can be placed next to another, and it fills a corner where a round shape always leaves space. On a long table, a square tray creates a resting point around which the table is set.

Those who collect silver over years also notice: square pieces stack better. Where round platters might jam against each other, square ones lie flat — a trivial but crucial advantage in everyday life.

Engraving

The mirror is large, flat, and free of ornamentation. For a coat of arms, a monogram, or a multi-line dedication with a date, it offers one of the best surfaces in the assortment — and the square shape naturally provides stability for a centered engraving. Engraving upon request; we will agree on size and position beforehand. Upon request, we will include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, currently free of charge.

Occasions

For a wedding as a collective gift from several guests. For a silver wedding anniversary, a significant birthday, or a company anniversary. With a piece of this size, the question of durability is not an issue — it outlasts the occasions for which it was gifted.

Care

Hand wash 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 indentations. For the frosted background, additionally: do not use polishing paste — it would smooth the fine roughening and destroy the contrast that defines the ornament. A soft silver cloth is sufficient. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silverware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does frosted background mean?

The background behind the ornament is roughened with a fine punch and therefore does not shine. This makes the polished tendrils stand out. It should not be polished.

Solid or plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver with approx. 2.1 kg material weight, no plating, with official Italian hallmark.

Is the tray also available smaller?

Yes — as approx. 45×45 cm with palmettes and as approx. 42×42 cm. Of the same size is the tray with a shell rim.

Is it delivered in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

Two Trays with 48 Centimeters

The line includes two square trays of this size, and they are easily confused:

• this one — with a tendril rim on a frosted background; the ornament flows smoothly over the rim
• the tray with a shell rim — more sculptural, with a pronounced rim contour

The frosted background is the actual feature here. A roughened surface scatters light instead of reflecting it; this makes the tendril work stand out without needing to be more deeply embossed. On a polished surface, the same ornament would be lost in reflections.

Smaller versions include the tray with approx. 45×45 cm and the square one with approx. 42×42 cm.

You might also be interested in

Other formats for silver trays, the entire range in table silver & silverware, and also carafes & pitchers. All pieces of the line are grouped together in the Signature by Zaramella category.