Sterling silver tray, rectangular, signed – approx. 47×35 cm

If you want to put not just two glasses on it, but also the carafe, the bowl of olives, and still have room for two more glasses – then this is the format for you. Of the three rectangular sizes, it is the most popular: large enough for an evening, small enough to lift with both hands.

At a glance

• Rectangular serving tray made of 925 sterling silver
• Dimensions approx. 47 × 35 cm — silver weight approx. 1.35 kg
• Rim entirely hand-chased, acanthus tendrils with small blossoms
• Curved arc contour, fine beaded edge on the outer rim
• Large smooth, unornamented surface
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufactory since 1948

Why size makes all the difference

Trays usually fail not because of their appearance, but because of their size. Too small, and you make two trips. Too large, and it won't fit on the side table or through the door to the conservatory. Approximately 47 × 35 cm is the format that safely holds a carafe with four to six glasses and can still be grasped with one hand on the rim.

The weight also helps: at approx. 1.35 kg of silver, the tray sits firmly on the surface and does not slip when a glass is put down. The raised, curved rim holds what's on it — even when carried.

The rim — chased, not embossed

The "Fahne", as the surrounding rim of the tray is called, is hand-chased: The pattern is driven into the silver with punches, stroke by stroke. You can recognize it by the fact that the tendrils have real depth and no two sections are exactly alike. An embossing would be more uniform — and lifeless.

The motif is the acanthus, the jagged leaf that has adorned capitals since antiquity and came to table silver via the Italian Renaissance. Small blossoms sit between the tendrils. On the outside, a fine beaded edge finishes the "Fahne", while on the inside, a curved step leads to the surface.

Material and Origin

For a piece of this craftsmanship, the material determines its feasibility: The chased rim could not be produced on a plated item — it would tear during chasing. 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 operating in Padua since 1948. The Signature line within the house is richly chased — the same ornamental language is also found in the wine carafe set of the line, which finds its place on a tray of this size.

What it's used for

The aperitif for six, the coffee table with pot, creamer, and cups, dessert in small bowls, the cheese board with knives and bread. At a reception, it carries filled glasses through the room without you fearing every step.

Beyond the table, it becomes a stage: on the dresser for a carafe and glasses as a standing arrangement, on the sideboard for candlesticks, on the side table next to the armchair. Silver that remains in use develops a depth that doesn't occur in the cupboard.

Engraving

On this format, the surface offers an unusually large, flat area without ornamentation — space for a multi-line dedication, a monogram, or a family crest. Engraving is possible upon request; we will discuss the placement and size with you in advance, as the scale determines the effect on this surface. Upon request, we can include a SilberVerse card, digitally designed in 15 × 10 cm format, currently free of charge.

Occasions

For a wedding, a tray of this size is one of the few gifts that accompanies a couple for decades – it outlasts moves and interior styles. For a silver wedding anniversary, the circle closes. For a big birthday, a housewarming, or as a gift to business partners, it stands where a bouquet of flowers would be too fleeting.

Care

Clean by hand with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly. No dishwasher: cleaning salts attack the surface, and moisture remains in the chased depressions. Tarnishing is not damage, but a reaction with sulfur from the air — a silver cloth brings back the shine. The darker depth in the tendrils can remain, it makes the ornament three-dimensional. More information can be found in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver dinnerware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver with approx. 1.35 kg material weight, not plated. With official Italian hallmark.

How many glasses does it hold?

A carafe with four to six glasses stands securely. For a larger arrangement, the same model is available in approx. 53 × 40 cm.

Can I serve food directly on it?

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

Is this model available in other sizes?

Yes — as approx. 39×28 cm and as approx. 53×40 cm. All three formats are identical in shape, differing only in size.

Does it come in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer, ready for gifting.

The medium size — and why it's usually this one

Of the three formats of this model, this is the most chosen. Approx. 47×35 cm holds eight to ten glasses or a complete coffee service for four, while still being comfortable to lift with both hands.

• approx. 39×28 cm — for daily use, one-handed
• approx. 47×35 cm — this tray
• approx. 53×40 cm — for serving at large tables

All three are crafted in the same shape. If you own two of them, you don't have a duplicate, but a series – they can be placed next to each other without the edges or the width of the ornament differing.

You might also be interested in

Further formats and shapes can be found under Silver Trays, the entire range in Table Silver & Silver Dinnerware, and matching Carafes & Pitchers. All pieces of the line are grouped together in the Signature by Zaramella category.