Silver plate 925 silver Signature square — approx. 24×24 cm

The manufacturer lists this piece under the same model number as the Eliyahu cup with nodus — it is the corresponding saucer. The catalog simply calls it a Square Plate, and there is no contradiction here: without any inscriptions or religious symbols, it is equally suitable for serving cheese, pastries, or chocolates.

At a glance

• Square serving plate in 925 sterling silver
• Dimensions approx. 24 × 24 cm
• Four sculptural corner volutes made of acanthus leaves
• Surrounding bead-and-reel rim as an inner frame for the center
• Densely chased border between the edge and the center
• Smooth square center with rounded corners
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — Manufacture since 1948

The corners define the form

With square silverware, the corner is the difficult part: this is where ornament meets ornament, and if the transition fails, the entire piece looks squat. This plate solves the problem by making the corner the main motif. A volute — a curled acanthus form — grows from each corner, extending beyond the straight edge and giving the silhouette a sense of movement.

Between the corners lies the border with its dense foliage. Towards the center, it is framed by a delicate bead-and-reel, a continuous band of small hemispheres. It is more than just decoration: the row of beads draws a clear line between the intricate and plain zones, making the smooth center appear larger than it is.

The work is chased by hand — driven into the silver with punches, strike by strike. No two sections of the foliage are exactly the same; this is what distinguishes handcraft from machine-stamping.

Material and origin

A silver-plated piece could not be crafted this way — the plating would tear under the punch. Nor could it be polished repeatedly, as the layer would become thinner. Solid silver withstands both: the handcrafting during creation and care over generations.

Zaramella Argenti has been working in Padua since 1948. The Signature line represents the house’s richly chased style and includes platters, trays, plates, and vases in the same design language.

The right format for a small presentation

Measuring approx. 24 × 24 cm, this size is intended for the individual rather than the masses: chocolates for espresso, petits fours, a selection of cheese for two, or an amuse-bouche. On the dining table, the plate stands as an independent element next to the place setting, not as a surface for everything.

Outside of the dining table, it is one of the few silver forms that also works on a desk — for seals, cufflinks, or a watch at night. On the hallway dresser, it holds keys and mail.

Also as an Eliyahu plate

Zaramella also lists this same plate as a plate for the Cup of Elijah — the fifth cup, which is filled during the Passover Seder but not drunk. The plate sits under the cup, catches what spills when it is filled to the brim, and elevates it from the set table.

This is no contradiction, but rather the rule with silverware: the form is the same, the usage determines the function. Those looking for the plate for the Seder evening will also find it with partially gilded corner leaves in the 925 Silver Judaica category.

Engraving

The center is square, flat, and free of ornaments — an ideal surface for a monogram, as the square naturally provides structure for a centered initial. Engraving after checking the piece: the engraving service goes straight into your cart, and we discuss size and position with you after your order. If engraving is not possible, you get the flat fee back. Upon request, we include a SilberVerse card (15 × 10 cm) free of charge.

Occasions

As a wedding gift, when it should be a piece that remains visible daily rather than staying in the cupboard. For a housewarming, a birthday, or as a thank-you. For someone who already has everything, a small silver plate is often the better choice than a large piece: it will always find its place.

Care

Clean by hand 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 chased depressions. Tarnish is a reaction with sulfur in the air and is reversible with a silver cloth. The darker depth in the foliage and around the bead-and-reel can remain — it gives the ornament its three-dimensionality. Learn more in our guide on caring for silver cutlery and tableware.

Frequently asked questions

Can I serve food directly on it?

Yes, that is what it is made for. For acidic foods, we recommend using a paper liner and cleaning it promptly afterwards.

How large is the smooth center?

It occupies the middle area within the bead-and-reel border — enough space for a centered monogram or a short dedication.

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver, not plated.

Does it belong to a cup?

Yes — the manufacturer lists it under the same model number as the Eliyahu cup with nodus. Both are available together as a set. As a serving plate, it can just as easily be used without the cup.

Does it come in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacture.

Two uses, one piece

The manufacturer lists this plate under the same model number as the Eliyahu cup with nodus — it is its corresponding saucer, and both together form the set.

At the same time, the catalog calls it simply a Square Plate, not a ritual plate. This is no contradiction, but rather a statement about its form: without any inscriptions or religious symbols, it is a square silver plate that serves just as well for cheese, pastries, or chocolates.

Those who want it as a ritual plate will find the same form with gold accents in its gilded sibling — the plate approx. 24×24 cm. Those looking for a pure serving plate can browse our tableware collection.

You might also be interested in

Larger formats can be found in our silver trays, and the entire assortment in Tableware & Silverware. All pieces in this line are grouped together in the Signature by Zaramella category. Why some pieces in this line serve as both ritual objects and serving plates is explained in Silver at the Jewish Table.