Sterling Silver Tray, Square Signature — approx. 45×45 cm, Palmettes

Centered on each of the four sides sits a palmette — that fan-shaped leaf motif invented in antiquity and rediscovered during the Renaissance. Unlike continuous scrolling, it is strictly symmetrical, which is precisely what suits a square: the rim is given a rhythm instead of a uniform band.

At a glance

• Square serving tray made of 925 sterling silver
• Dimensions approx. 45 × 45 cm — silver weight approx. 2.1 kg
• A sculptural palmette in the center of each side
• Four richly decorated corners with acanthus volutes
• Densely chased border between the motifs
• Smooth center with rounded corners
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — manufacture since 1948

The palmette as an organizing element

A continuously and uniformly chased edge is calm, but also arbitrary — the eye finds no point of rest. This tray sets four accents: a palmette in the center of each side, the fan-shaped leaf that has adorned buildings and utensils since ancient Greece. Between the palmettes, dense scrolling runs along the edge, with robust acanthus volutes at the corners.

This results in a clear order: four corners, four side centers, and the surface in between. You grasp the edge at a single glance instead of having to let your eyes wander across it.

The entire piece is hand-chased — driven into the silver with punches, stroke by stroke. The palmettes and corners are worked more prominently than the scrolling in between; this height difference is achieved only through handwork.

Material and origin

For a piece of this design, the material determines whether it can be made: The chased border could not be produced on a plated item — it would tear during the hammering process. And a tray that is actually used can only withstand polishing if the silver is solid throughout.

Zaramella Argenti has been operating in Padua since 1948. Their signature is the house's richly chased line.

What it is used for

Measuring approx. 45 × 45 cm, it can hold a carafe with six to eight glasses, coffee service for six, an appetizer platter, or dessert in small bowls. At a reception, it carries filled glasses in a single trip.

As a standing element on a sideboard, it brings together items that would otherwise look scattered — a carafe, glasses, a candlestick. The four palmettes provide a frame for the arrangement that looks the same from every side.

The corners

At the four corners are robust acanthus volutes — curled leaf forms that project beyond the straight edge. They are the counterpoint to the palmettes in the centers of the sides: where the palmette is laid out flat, the volute curls inward sculpturally.

For practical use, this has a benefit. A tray of this size is held by the corners, and the volutes provide more material and a better grip there. The edge is reinforced at the exact points where it is subjected to the most strain.

Engraving

The center surface is ornament-free and generously sized. A centered monogram or coat of arms complements the fourfold symmetry of the border; a multi-line dedication also fits easily. Engraving is possible once we have checked the piece. Simply add the engraving service to your cart; we discuss scale and position with you after your order. If engraving is not feasible, we refund the flat fee. Upon request, we can include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, free of charge.

Occasions

For weddings, silver anniversaries, or jubilees. As a gift for business partners, where an engraved logo sits in the center of the surface, framed by the chased edge. As a collective gift from multiple givers.

Material in use

Silver changes when you use it — and this is intended. The raised areas, which are touched by hands and cloths, remain bright. The recesses between the scrolls darken because they are never touched. This contrast creates the depth that distinguishes antique tableware from new.

A piece that stays in the cupboard for decades tarnishes evenly and appears dull. One that stays in use gains contrast. Therefore, the best care for a tray of this kind is not polishing, but using it.

Care

Clean by hand with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly. Do not use a dishwasher — cleaning salts attack silver, and moisture would remain trapped in the deeper parts of the palmettes. A soft brush is suitable for the recesses. Tarnish is a normal reaction with sulfur in the air and is reversible with a silver cloth; the darker tint may remain in the depths, as it makes the relief look sculptural. More in our guide on caring for silver cutlery and tableware.

Frequently asked questions

What is a palmette?

A fan-shaped leaf motif from ancient ornamentation. On tableware, it breaks up long edges and provides accents at the centers of the sides.

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver with a material weight of approx. 2.1 kg, not plated.

Can I serve food directly on it?

Yes. For acidic foods, we recommend using a liner and cleaning it promptly.

Is the tray available in other sizes?

Yes — smaller as approx. 42×42 cm, larger as approx. 48×48 cm with a scrolling edge or with a shell edge.

Is it delivered in a gift box?

Yes, in a high-quality box from the manufacture.

Where it fits in the range

At approx. 45×45 cm, this tray sits between the square version at approx. 42×42 cm and the two large 48 cm formats: the tray with the scrolling edge and the one with the shell edge.

The palmette — that fan-shaped leaf motif that gives the piece its name — is the oldest ornament in this selection. It is found on Greek temples just as it is on neoclassical furniture. Unlike scrolls or shells, it is strictly symmetrical, which matches the square base form.

The manufacturer lists it as a 2018 model — one of the more recent designs within the Signature line , which is evident in the restrained edge structure.

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Other formats in our silver trays section, the full range in tableware & silver items. All pieces in this line can be found together in the Signature by Zaramella category.