The favorite plates of the deceased. Those are prepared and put over altars known as "ofrendas" (offerings), which also include Zempasuchil (Mexican marigold) flowers as well as photographs and other items of the deceased.
Each altar for El Dia De Los Muertos usually includes the four elements: Air, Water, Fire, and Earth. Marigolds, or "zempasuchil" symbolize the earth, as they are flowers that grow from the earth.