Soup plate, 925 sterling silver, signed, round — approx. 26 cm

Among the Signature pieces, this plate is the exception: it is not made for looking at, but for eating from. Such plates were traditionally purchased in sets of six or twelve and added to over generations. Anyone starting today can build up their table setting harmoniously over the years.

At a glance

• Round soup plate made of 925 sterling silver
• Diameter approx. 26 cm — silver weight approx. 0.5 kg
• Wide rim, completely hand-chased: vines with small blossoms
• Two surrounding beaded borders — one on the outer edge, one at the transition to the center
• Deep, completely smooth center
• Zaramella Argenti, Padua — manufacture since 1948

Rim and center

A plate is divided into two zones: the rim (the wide edge) and the well (or, in the case of a soup plate, the center). The proportions of this piece are unusual: the rim takes up almost half of the diameter and bears the entire ornament, while the center remains completely smooth.

This is not a whim, but a functional choice. Whatever is in the center — soup, risotto, a dessert — should stand out and not compete with the pattern. Furthermore, the smooth surface can be cleaned without residue, which would not be possible with a chased base.

The rim is hand-chased: the pattern is driven into the silver with punches, not embossed. Two fine beaded borders frame it — one on the outer edge, one where it transitions to the center. They give the plate its clear silhouette when placed on a charger.

Material and origin

A silver-plated piece could not be produced this way — the plating would tear under the punch. And it could not be repolished as often as desired because the layer would become thinner. Solid silver withstands both: the handwork during production and the care over generations.

Zaramella Argenti has been working in Padua since 1948. The Signature line represents the house’s richly chased style and includes not only plates but also trays, platters, and vases in the same ornamental language.

At the dining table

A silver plate is rarely set alone. It stands on a charger, or it serves as the charger itself under a porcelain setting — both are common. As a soup plate, it is brought out for the first course, then cleared away to make room. It is precisely this brief appearance that is the reason why it is made of silver: it commands full attention for as long as it is on the table.

It belongs in a series for a multi-course menu. Anyone planning to complete their set over time will find other forms in the line — flat platters, large serving plates, and trays.

Engraving

The smooth center should be treated cautiously as an engraving surface: anything placed there will eventually be covered by food. It is more common to have a subtle engraving on the back or a monogram on the rim, placed in one of the quiet areas of the ornament. Engraving is performed after consultation; we are happy to advise you on this. Upon request, we can also include a SilberVerse card (15 × 10 cm) free of charge.

Occasions

As a wedding gift to begin a set that will grow over the years. For a silver wedding anniversary as an addition to what is already there. As a gift for someone who enjoys cooking well and for whom a plate is not just a utility item, but part of the evening.

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 in the chased indentations of the rim. Clean promptly after acidic foods. Tarnishing is normal and reversible with a silver cloth; the darker depth in the indentations is intended to remain. More information can be found in our guide on the care of silver cutlery and silver tableware.

Frequently asked questions

Can you really eat from it?

Yes. 925 silver has been the material for fine tableware for centuries. Clean by hand after eating.

Is it part of a series?

It comes from the Signature line, which also includes trays and platters in the same style. A table setting can be harmoniously supplemented over time.

Does the plate get hot when there is soup in it?

Silver conducts heat well — the plate will take on the temperature of the contents. Hold by the edge, as you would with any soup plate.

Does it scratch from cutlery?

Silver is softer than steel; fine signs of use will develop over time. These form the patina that characterizes old silver pieces and can be professionally polished away.

Is it delivered in a gift box?

Yes, in high-quality packaging from the manufacturer.

A piece for the table, not for display

Among the Signature pieces, this plate is the exception: it is not made for looking at, but for eating from. Approx. 26 cm with a deepened center — the dimensions of an ordinary soup plate, executed in solid sterling silver.

Such plates were traditionally purchased in sets of six or twelve and added to over generations. Anyone starting today should know: the piece is part of a line that also includes trays and platters in the same style. A table setting can therefore be built up harmoniously over the years.

And on its own? It works just as well — as a decorative tray on a dresser, a bowl for fruit, or as that one silver piece on an otherwise simple table.

You might also be interested in

Further tableware pieces can be found under Table Silver & Silverware and among the silver trays. All pieces in the line are gathered together in the category Signature by Zaramella.