Fine China is a perfect medium in which to serve a proper tea. Tea sets made of china were very popular in the Victorian Era for their beauty and strength, and they remain so today. Many beautiful sets grace china cupboards and sideboards all over the world. Tea sets made of china were first produced in the 1600's and were quite different from the original Chinese tea sets consisting of a pot, handleless cups and a bamboo whisk. China tea sets were both elaborate and simple, and an elegant reminder of the past.
China tea sets come in varying sizes. Some might just be a pot and two cups while a large set can include many cups, dishes, sugar bowls, creamer and a tray. While a little difficult to lift larger sets, this configuration made beverages for the whole family instead of one person. These sets might be highly ornamented and gilded with gold or just plain white with a scalloped design. They even come in miniature sizes for children to give tea parties for their dolls and stuffed animals. They are very convenient because everything is there except the tea, and ready for nearly any occasion.
Western tea sets, also called tea services, first appeared in metals like pewter or silver. Once porcelain was developed it was only natural that the new product became a tea set to satisfy the demands of those that could not afford silver. Bone china was a perfect candidate for a tea set. Most pottery sets were heavy and cumbersome. Bone china allowed the services to be dainty and light.
Bone china sets consisted of a teapot, cups and saucers, serving plates, creamer, sugar bowl, waste bowl and platters for food that came alongside the tea. The same china pattern comprised the entire set. The waste bowl is no longer included in modern day tea sets. This is where the leaves used in making fine tea were placed in order for them to be discarded. Most of these sets are equipped to serve four people, but getting extra components to expand the set is very easy.
A tea service was a status symbol during the Victorian Era and many households became collectors. It was common to display sets even if there was only one to show off. A perfect place to display a bone china set was in front of a window so the light illustrated the translucent qualities of the cups and teapot. China cupboards are another perfect place to display collectible items. Most china cupboards have clear glass and even the sides of some are curved glass for optimum viewing. The best thing about a china cupboard is that the set will not get dusty because it is totally enclosed. These sets left in the open tend to collect dust. A china cupboard also gives added protection to the tea set as it cannot fall to the ground and break easily, particularly in homes with pets or children.
Today tea sets come in all shapes and sizes. There are sets that look like miniature cities or animals. They are brightly colored or subdued with delicate roses painted on them. They are made of porcelain and bone china. Some sets are purposely mismatched for a Bohemian flair. No matter what they look like they enhance the tea drinking experience with beauty, whimsy and elegance.
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