Silver tray 925 sterling silver signature square — approx. 48x48 cm, shell rim

The largest square tray in the line — and the heaviest of all the trays. A weight you feel when you lift it and hear when you set it down. A shell motif is centered on each side, and the corners are boldly sculpted.

At a glance

• Very large square serving tray in 925 sterling silver
• Dimensions approx. 48 × 48 cm — silver weight approx. 2.35 kg
• Sculptural shell motif centered on each side
• Boldly embossed corner sections with acanthus volutes
• Densely chased rim between the motifs
• Large smooth center field with rounded corners
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — manufacturing since 1948

The shell

Four shells structure the rim — one centered on each side, worked in higher relief than the surrounding scrollwork. The shell is one of the leitmotifs of the Italian Baroque; it arrived via the Renaissance from antiquity, where it stood as a symbol of birth and abundance, and became a sign of hospitality on silverware.

Between the shells runs dense acanthus scrollwork, with bold volutes at the corners. This arrangement — four corners, four side centers — gives the large square a sense of order that can be grasped at a glance.

The entire work is chased by hand: driven into the silver with punches, blow by blow. Only in this way is the height difference between the sculptural shells and the flatter scroll background achieved.

Related, but not identical

The line includes a second tray in the same size, whose rim is worked with continuous scrolls on a matted background. The difference is fundamental: there, a uniform band; here, a structure of four accents. Those looking for a calm surface will choose the scroll tray; those wanting structure and relief will choose this one.

Material and origin

With a piece of this type, the material determines the feasibility: The chased rim could not be produced on a plated piece — it would tear during the chasing process. And a tray that is used can only withstand polishing if the silver is solid throughout.

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

What it is used for

Approx. 48 × 48 cm holds a carafe with eight glasses, a complete coffee service for six to eight people, or a large cheese or appetizer platter. At a reception, it carries twelve filled glasses in one go — when fully loaded, it comes to a good five kilograms, which should be carried with both hands.

On a sideboard or console, it acts as a fixed surface upon which an arrangement can be built and kept. The four shells give it the same look from every side — it does not need to be aligned.

Silver in use

A piece of this size is not used weekly. It marks special occasions: celebrations, receptions, Sundays with the whole family. In between, it stands on display rather than lying in a cupboard.

This is also better for the material. Silver that is touched by hands and cloths remains bright on the raised parts, while the recesses darken — this creates the contrast that defines vintage silverware. Enclosed silver, by contrast, tarnishes evenly and looks dull.

Engraving

The center field is the largest square engraving surface in the assortment: flat, free of ornamentation, with rounded corners. A family crest, a company logo, or a multi-line dedication sits centered and is framed by the rim. Engraving subject to verification; for this surface, we discuss the design and scale in advance. Upon request, we include a SilberVerse card, 15 × 10 cm, free of charge.

Occasions

As a collective gift for a wedding or golden anniversary, for a company jubilee, or as a commemorative award. With a piece of this size, there is no question of durability — it outlasts the occasion for which it was given and is passed on.

Care

By hand with warm water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly — for this size, it is best to lay it flat. No dishwasher: cleaning salts attack silver, and moisture would remain in the deep parts of the shells. A soft brush is suitable for the recesses. Tarnishing is normal and reversible with a silver cloth; the darker tint may remain in the depths. More in the guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver tableware.

Frequently asked questions

How heavy is it when loaded?

The tray weighs approx. 2.35 kg. With twelve filled glasses, it comes to around five kilograms — easy to carry with both hands.

How does it differ from the other 48 cm tray?

The tray with the scroll rim features its ornament flat on a matted background. This one has a sculpturally chased shell rim with a distinct contour — same size, clearly different presence.

Solid or silver-plated?

Solid 925 sterling silver, no plating.

Is it delivered in gift packaging?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

The largest square tray

Approx. 48×48 cm, with a sculpturally chased shell rim — of the square trays in the line, this is the most elaborate. Alongside it, in the same dimension, is the tray with the scroll rim, whose ornament lies flatter on a matted background.

Smaller formats with the same design language: approx. 45×45 cm with palmettes and approx. 42×42 cm.

A piece of this size is rarely bought alone. It usually marks the beginning or the end of a collection — as the piece around which the smaller ones are complemented. Those who prefer the round design language will find it in the round trays of the same line.

You might also be interested in

Further formats in the silver trays, the entire assortment in Tableware & Silverware, plus the carafes & pitchers. All pieces of the line are gathered together in the category Signature by Zaramella.