Mayim Achronim Set 925 Silver Signature — Pitcher and Bowl

A small pitcher with a gold-plated spout, standing in its own pedestal bowl. This set is intended for Mayim Achronim — the ritual washing of the fingers after a meal, which is performed at the table rather than at a sink.

At a glance

• Set for Mayim Achronim made of 925 sterling silver
• Pitcher approx. 9 cm, bowl approx. 10.5 cm high and approx. 15 cm in diameter
• Total silver weight approx. 0.35 kg
• Gold-plated spout, chased areas on the pitcher and base
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — manufacturing since 1948

Why the pitcher and bowl go together

Mayim Achronim literally means “last water” and refers to the ritual washing of the fingers after a meal. Unlike the hand washing before eating bread, this takes place at the table — one does not stand up.

The design follows from this. A pouring vessel is required that is small enough to be passed around the table. And a catch bowl is needed because there is no sink nearby. Both are combined here into a single set: the pitcher sits in the bowl when not in use, and the bowl catches the water when it is needed.

On a table set with tableware and glasses, this is a practical solution — together, the set takes up barely more space than a wine glass.

The pedestal bowl

The bowl sits on a pedestal base rather than flat on the table. There are two reasons for this: it is easier to lift and pass around, and the base keeps the bottom away from the tablecloth should any drops run down the side.

Its rim is widely flared so that nothing spills while pouring. The inside remains smooth — anything that comes into contact with water should be easy to dry without leaving residue.

The gold-plated spout

The pitcher's spout is gold-plated. Gold does not react with water, and the spout is precisely the place where a residue always remains. On silver, this would develop a dull edge over time — on gold, it does not.

Visually, the gilding also emphasizes the most important part: the spot from which the water flows.

Material and origin

For a piece intended to be passed down through generations, the difference from silver-plated items is decisive: Plating wears off, solid silver does not. It can be polished again and again, and the ornamentation — which can only be achieved by chasing solid silver — is preserved in the process.

Zaramella Argenti has been manufacturing in Padua since 1948. The ornaments of the Signature line are chased — driven into the silver by hand using punches. On a piece of this size, the ornament sits in narrow bands; the remaining surfaces are polished so that they are easy to dry.

As a gift

For a wedding, housewarming, or Bar or Bat Mitzvah. A Mayim Achronim set is a gift for households that already have the basics — it is one of those pieces one rarely buys for oneself and is therefore all the more appreciated.

For hosts who regularly celebrate Shabbat, it is a visible sign of thoughtfulness: whoever gives it knows the tradition.

Engraving

The polished zones on the pitcher and the base of the bowl can accommodate a subtle engraving — a monogram or a date — upon request. With a set, usually only one part is engraved. We will coordinate this with you in advance. Upon request, we can include a SilberVerse card (15 × 10 cm) free of charge.

Care

Clean by hand with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly — both pieces, inside and out. No dishwasher: cleaning salts attack silver and would damage the gilding. Empty and dry after use; standing water is the only real enemy. Wipe the gold-plated spout only when dry. More in our guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver tableware.

Frequently asked questions

What is Mayim Achronim?

Literally “last water” — the ritual washing of the fingers after a meal. It takes place at the table, which is why a catch bowl is part of the set.

How does it differ from a Netilat vessel?

The Netilat vessel is larger, has two handles, and is used for washing before bread — over a sink. This set is smaller, comes with a catch bowl, and is passed around the table after the meal.

Are both pieces included in the delivery?

Yes, the pitcher and bowl belong together.

Is the set kosher?

We sell silver items and describe their use — we cannot provide religious legal advice. Questions regarding ritual suitability should be answered by your community.

Is it delivered in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

The distinction that is often confused

Two vessels for two different moments of the same meal:

• the Netilat vessel — larger, with two handles, before bread, over a sink
• this set — pitcher with catch bowl, after the meal, passed around the table

The entire design results from the bowl: Because the water must be caught at the dining table, the pitcher is small and the bowl is flat. A Netilat vessel with a one-liter capacity would be unusable here.

Other pieces for the same table: the Challah plate, the Kiddush set and, for the Seder evening, the Seder plate.

The pitcher and bowl form a small still life when not in use. Placed together on a tray or on a display shelf, they form an ensemble that is more impressive than each piece on its own — and you have both together when they are brought to the table.

You might also be interested in

Further ritual objects in the 925 Silver Judaica category, the entire line under Signature by Zaramella. The article Silver at the Jewish table explains why there are two different vessels for hand washing.