Sterling Silver Platter 925 Silver Signature round — approx. 46 cm, shell edge

There are trays that carry something, and there are those that are the object themselves. This one belongs to the second kind: its rim is so deeply embossed that it makes an impression even when empty. In the catalog, the model is called Acanthus — the same foliage adorns the Acanthus cup of the line.

At a Glance

• Large round serving tray made of 925 sterling silver
• Diameter approx. 46 cm — silver weight approx. 1.785 kg
• Deeply embossed rim with shell and palmette motifs, ribbed intermediate fields
• Wavy outer contour — the rim follows the ornament
• Large smooth center, completely free of ornament
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufacture since 1948

The Rim as a Relief

With most chased trays, the pattern lies flat on the flange. Here it is different: the motifs protrude so much that the outer contour follows them and ripples around the circle. Between the shell and palmette shapes are ribbed fields that break the light into narrow strips — an alternation of strong and calm that gives structure to the large diameter.

The work is chased: hammered into the silver by hand with punches, not embossed. With this relief height, this means many work steps in which the sheet metal is worked from both sides. You can see it in the transitions — they are soft, not sharp-edged, as an embossing tool would leave them.

The acanthus leaf and the shell are both from the repertoire of the Italian Renaissance, which in turn adopted them from antiquity. They have been found on silverware since the 16th century.

Material and Origin

For a piece of this craftsmanship, the material determines its manufacturability: the chased flange 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 manufacturer in Italy.

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

Round instead of square — what difference does that make?

A round tray has no front. It works in the center of the table, where it is seen from all sides, and it can be rotated instead of being passed around. For the coffee table, the round dining table, or the center of a long table, this is the appropriate shape.

Approximately 46 cm is a stately size: a carafe with six glasses fits on it, a cheese platter with accompaniments, an arrangement of candlesticks. More often than serving, for this size, is its stationary use — on a sideboard or console, as a resting surface on which something stands.

Engraving

The center takes up the larger part of the surface and is completely free of ornament — one of the most generous engraving surfaces in the assortment. A coat of arms, a monogram, or a dedication with a date can be placed here without conflicting with the rim. Engraving on request, placement will be coordinated in advance. Upon request, we will include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, currently free of charge.

Occasions

For weddings, silver anniversaries, or milestone birthdays. As a gift from several guests together, if one alone is not enough. As a present for a company anniversary, where an engraved coat of arms or logo should remain permanently visible. A piece of this size is not replaced, but inherited.

Care

Hand wash with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly. Do not use a dishwasher: cleaning salts attack the surface, and moisture would remain in the deep relief. For drying, an absorbent cloth that can reach into the indentations is recommended. Tarnishing is a normal reaction with sulfur from the air — a silver cloth restores the shine. In the depths of the relief, the darker tone can remain: it is what makes the pattern three-dimensional. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silverware.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep is the rim?

The rim is embossed, but not raised high — the tray is designed for serving and presentation, not as a bowl. What stands on it is secure; it does not hold liquid.

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver with a material weight of approx. 1.785 kg, not plated, with an official Italian hallmark.

Is the relief easy to clean?

Yes, by hand with a soft cloth and mild dish soap. A soft brush is suitable for the indentations. Thorough drying is important.

Are there other pieces with the same motif?

Yes — the manufacturer also features the acanthus leaf on the Eliyahu Cup and the matching plate. In the same diameter, there are also round trays with cartouches and a lily rim.

Does it come in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

The Acanthus Tray

In the manufacturer's catalog, this model is called Acanthus. It thus belongs to a small group of Signature pieces that bear the same leaf motif — including the Acanthus Cup and the Acanthus Plate. Those who want a consistent style on the table will find it here.

In the same diameter, there are also the tray with cartouches and the one with a lily rim. The difference lies in the depth of the work: the acanthus leaf is more plastically chased and casts more shadow.

A more deeply worked rim also means more effort in care — but the darker depth remains in the indentations, which is what makes a chased piece appear three-dimensional. These areas can consciously be left dark.

You might also be interested in

Further shapes and formats among the silver trays, the entire assortment in table silver & silverware, plus carafes & jugs. All pieces of the line are together in the category Signature by Zaramella.