Abstract: The rigid top pressing punch of a press for producing plates or the like is haped in accordance with the inner shape of the plate or the like to be produced. An elastic membrane, which establishes the top boundary, i.e., closes the cavity of a mold, is held at its edge shaped to the dimensions of the eventual plate, and is provided with an annular groove corresponding to the foot of the plate. Pulverulent porcelain composition is distributed on the membrane in the area determined by the edge having the holding action structure. The cavity defined by the membrane is filled with a pressure medium. After lowering the pressing punch, pressure can be applied through the pressure medium to the pulverulent porcelain composition distributed on the membrane in a pressing position. The elastic membrane in its relaxed position corresponds to the shape of the lower surface of the plate or the like, is made with an even, minimum thickness over substantially its whole area and has sufficient inherent strength.