The term describes a dish, typically bowl-shaped, designed for displaying and holding fruits. Its primary characteristic is the presence of a thin layer of silver electrodeposited onto a base metal, providing an aesthetic resembling solid silver at a more accessible price point. This item is often used as a decorative centerpiece on dining tables or countertops.
Such items combine the visual appeal of precious metal with relative affordability and durability. Historically, these pieces were popular as symbols of prosperity and refined taste within middle-class households. The silver plating offers a degree of tarnish resistance and imparts a reflective sheen that enhances the presentation of the fruit it holds, potentially encouraging healthier dietary choices by making fresh produce more visually appealing.