Oval Serving Platter with Sunflowers

In Italian we call this shape a sperlunga — an oval serving platter with a gently scalloped edge. It's the kind of plate that goes straight to the middle of the table, loaded up with whatever you're sharing. Our artisans in Vietri sul Mare shape each one by hand and paint it freehand with food-safe enamels.

The design has sunflowers with brown centres and yellow petals at each corner, clusters of small red flowers, and green leaves, all on a warm yellow border. The centre is a deep, pooling blue that gives the platter depth and makes whatever food you put on it look good. The scalloped edge adds a soft, informal touch.

We see people use these for antipasti, sliced salumi and cheeses, grilled vegetables, or a spread of desserts. It also works as a decorative piece on a sideboard or hung on a wall — the flat oval shape displays nicely. At 37 to 42 cm it's big enough to be the centrepiece of a meal without taking over the whole table.

Like everything we carry, this platter is made in small batches by artisans who've been doing this work for decades. Slight variations in colour and brushwork are normal and expected.