Zerka – Deep Dinner Plate (27 cm)
Hand-formed using traditional Sejnane pottery methods in northern Tunisia, Zerka is the primary plate within the Artisan Ceramic Tableware collection.
Its geometry allows dishes to spread naturally while still containing oil, sauce, and mixed textures.
This balance makes the plate suitable for everyday meals as well as composed dishes.
Zerka uses a containment plate structure.
The plate features:
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A flat central eating plane
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Walls that rise upward from the base
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A rim that flares outward at the top
This geometry creates a controlled interior space that contains liquids while keeping the plate visually open.
Although the plate measures 27 cm at the rim, the usable food surface is slightly smaller because part of the diameter forms the rising wall and flared rim.
This structure allows sauce and oil to remain contained without turning the plate into a bowl.
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Zerka functions as the primary individual dinner plate in the collection.
Primary role
- Individual plate for composed meals
Secondary roles
- Pasta plate
- Grain and vegetable plate
- Bread and olive oil plate
- Shared dish for two when serving smaller portions
The plate allows ingredients to spread naturally while maintaining gentle containment.
Zerka supports many everyday meals, including:
- Pasta with tomato or olive oil
- Grain and vegetable plates
- Roasted vegetables
- Bread with olive oil or spreads
- Composed Mediterranean meals
The rising walls help hold oil and sauce while allowing the dish to remain visually open.
Zerka forms the foundation of individual place settings within the Artisan Ceramic Tableware system.
It pairs naturally with:
Zephyr — Large Individual Bowl
For meals that mix or carry more liquid.
Storka — Low Side Serving Bowl
For shared sides such as salad, olives, or fruit.
Hout — Large Deep Serving Plate
For larger shared dishes placed at the center of the table.
Together these forms create a balanced table for both individual and shared meals.
Diameter: 27 cm
Diameter is measured at the outer rim.
Because the plate includes rising walls and a flared rim, the central eating surface is slightly smaller than the full diameter.
Each piece is hand-formed, so small variation in size and rim alignment may occur.
For a broader explanation of plate geometry and scale, see Ceramic Plate Sizes.
Zerka is crafted from low-fired earthenware using traditional Sejnane pottery techniques.
This process creates:
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A mineral matte surface
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Subtle variation in tone
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Organic differences between pieces
These variations are part of the handmade process rather than defects.
Learn more in Handmade Ceramic Variation and Sejnane Pottery.
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These ceramics are suitable for daily food use when handled with care.
Because they are made from traditional low-fired earthenware, a few simple precautions help preserve them over time.
They are:
- Best washed by hand
- Not intended for microwave use
- Sensitive to sudden temperature changes
Hand washing with mild soap is recommended.
For additional guidance, see:
Each plate is carefully packed for international shipping.
Packaging is designed to protect handmade ceramics during transit.
Full details are available in Support and Returns Policy.
Zerka is part of the Artisan Ceramic Tableware collection.
Explore bowls, plates, and serving pieces designed to work together across daily meals and shared tables.