Challah Tray .925 Silver Gadrooned Rim — approx. 48 × 39 cm

For Shabbat, two braided loaves of bread are placed on the table. Why they get their own tray only becomes clear once you understand the ritual: the challot are covered until the blessing over the wine is spoken. They thus lie there for a while – visible to all, and without plates underneath them.

At a glance

• Challah tray made of 925 sterling silver
• 48 × 39 cm – silver weight approx. 875 g
• Oval basic shape with lobed contour
• Gadroon rim: obliquely twisted ribs, all around
• Two braided challot in relief, two Hebrew lines
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua – manufacture since 1948

Why two loaves of bread

The two loaves are called Lechem Mishneh, double bread. The common interpretation refers to the wandering in the desert: on Friday, a double portion of manna fell so that it would not have to be gathered on Shabbat. The relief therefore shows two loaves of bread, never one and never three.

After the blessing, the bread is broken and dipped in salt – a reminder of the Temple service, where every offering was salted.

The gadroon rim

Gadroons are obliquely twisted ribs that run around the rim. They are not created by chasing, but by raising over a form – the sheet metal is pressed into the ribbing, each one individually reworked. The technique is older than the delicate floral ornament found on other trays in this series, and it has a different effect: not narrative, but rhythmic.

Among the challah trays from this manufacturer, this is the most understated. Those looking for a piece that showcases the bread rather than itself will find it here.

Material

A gadroon rim requires material that can be extensively reshaped without tearing. Each rib pulls the sheet metal over the yield point at a narrow edge – a plating on carrier metal would chip off precisely where the deformation is strongest. Solid silver withstands this and can then be repolished for generations. The Italian hallmark of the manufacturer certifies it.

What it's suitable for

For two challot of usual size; at 48 × 39 cm, there is still space for the knife and salt shaker. Those who want to use the tray during the week should know: The Hebrew inscription makes it a dedicated piece – unlike a smooth serving platter, it cannot be repurposed at will.

More intricately chased and larger is the tray with floral rim; rectangular and with a hammered rim is the hammered tray.

As a gift

A challah tray is given as a gift for a wedding, a housewarming, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. It is a piece that is used every week – not once a year like a Seder plate, but every Friday evening.

An engraving is possible on the back; the front already has writing. We advise in advance on placement and size. Upon request, we can include a SilverVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, currently free of charge.

Care

By hand with warm water, mild dish soap and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly. No dishwasher. Remove crumbs and salt residues after each use – salt corrodes silver and leaves stains that cannot be polished away. Work with a soft brush in the gadroons. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silverware.

Frequently asked questions

What is written on the tray?

Two Hebrew lines in relief, placed above and below the challot. We will clarify the exact wording upon request from the manufacturer – we prefer not to provide a translation rather than an inaccurate one.

Does it come with a challah cover?

No, the tray is delivered without a cover.

Can it also be used for secular purposes?

The inscription dedicates it. For a serving platter without markings, we carry silver trays.

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver with Italian hallmark. We do not carry silver-plated goods.

Is it delivered in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

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Other pieces in the category Judaica made of 925 silver as well as in table silver.