Silver tray 925 silver signature round — approx. 46 cm, cartouche rim

The rim does not run continuously but is divided into large cartouches — curved leaf fields that line up next to each other. This has a practical side effect: a framed field is the classic surface for an engraving, where continuous ornamentation leaves little room for a dedication.

At a Glance

• Large round serving tray made of 925 sterling silver
• Diameter approx. 46 cm — silver weight approx. 2.15 kg
• Rim divided into curved leaf cartouches
• Wavy outer contour that follows the ornamentation
• Smooth round center with a continuous stepped edge
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufacturer since 1948

Cartouches instead of an endless band

Most round silver trays feature a continuous ornamental band. This one is constructed differently: its rim is divided into cartouches — self-contained, curved fields that abut one another. Each field has its own outline, and the outer contour of the tray follows these outlines instead of forming a smooth circle.

The difference is clear upon closer inspection: an endless band guides the eye in a circle. A division into cartouches makes it pause — field by field. This gives a piece of this size a tranquility that a continuous pattern would not have.

The work is chiseled by hand: hammered into the silver with punches, stroke by stroke. The leaf forms within the cartouches are raised to different heights, causing the light to shimmer across the rim.

Material and Origin

For a piece of this craftsmanship, the material determines its manufacturability: the chiseled rim would not be possible on a plated item — it would tear during the hammering process. 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 their richly chased line.

The Stepped Edge

Between the rim and the mirror, there is a continuous step — a narrow, vertical ledge. It is not merely decorative: it catches anything that slides on the mirror, and it makes the tray more rigid. A silver sheet of this span without a stiffening edge would buckle under load.

Visually, it neatly separates the busy rim area from the calm center and makes the mirror appear larger than its actual measurements.

What it's used for

Round means: no front side. On a round table, in the middle of a dining table or on a coffee table, the tray is seen equally from all sides and can be rotated instead of being passed around. Approx. 46 cm holds a carafe with six glasses, a selection of cheeses, a candle arrangement.

On the sideboard, it becomes a permanent fixture that is not cleared away - with a carafe and glasses on it, it creates a standing display.

Silver in Use

A tray of this size is not used every week — and that is precisely its role. It marks the occasions when more people are at the table. In between, it stands on the sideboard and is not put away.

Silver that is used ages more beautifully than silver in a cabinet: the raised areas remain bright because hands and cloths wipe over them, while the depressions darken. This difference creates the depth that separates old silverware from new. A piece that remains enclosed for decades, on the other hand, tarnishes evenly and appears dull.

Engraving

The mirror is round, even, and free of ornamentation. A centered engraving — monogram, coat of arms, or date — sits in the middle without competing with the rim. Engraving on request, we will coordinate scale and position in advance. Upon request, we will include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, currently free of charge.

Occasions

For weddings, silver anniversaries, milestone birthdays, corporate jubilees. As a joint gift from multiple givers. A piece of this size is not replaced but passed down.

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 cartouches — especially at the stepped edge, where water collects. Tarnishing is a normal reaction with sulfur from the air and is reversible with a silver cloth; the darker tone in the depressions can remain. More information in the guide on caring for silver cutlery and silverware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cartouche?

A self-contained ornamental field with its own outline. Instead of a continuous band, several such fields form the rim.

Does the rim hold liquid?

No. The stepped edge catches anything that slips, but it is not a bowl wall. The tray is intended for serving and presentation.

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver with approx. 2.15 kg material weight, no plating, with official Italian hallmark.

Is the tray also available with a different rim?

Yes — in the same diameter as a tray with a lily rim and as a tray with a shell rim. The form is the same; the rim motif distinguishes them.

Does it come in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

Two round trays, one size

The line includes two round trays with a diameter of approx. 46 cm, which differ only in the rim motif:

• this one — with cartouches, i.e., framed fields that divide the rim into sections
• the tray with a lily rim — a continuous floral motif instead of framed fields

A third round piece of the same diameter is the tray with a shell rim, which is crafted with acanthus leaves. Those who prefer a square shape will find it in the square tray measuring approx. 42x42 cm.

Cartouches have a practical side effect: they are the classic surface for an engraving. Where a continuous ornament leaves little room for a dedication, a framed field provides exactly the frame for it.

You might also be interested in

Further round and square formats among the silver trays, the entire assortment in table silver & silverware, as well as carafes & pitchers. All pieces of the line are presented together in the category Signature by Zaramella.