Elements of the Table: A Simple Guide for Hosts and Guests

by Lynn Rosen

Elegance is the art of not astonishing, said Jean Cocteau, but often the idea of a formal dinner party is intimidating to both hosts and guests for one the table setting. Why is there a spoon above my plate? Do I really need five different glasses? Where do I put my napkin when I leave the table? Lynn Rosen comes to the rescue with this practical, charming, and informative guide to all things tabletop. Organized by category, Lynn’s advice is sensible, her explanations are clear, and her historical asides will provide plenty of lively dinner conversation. You’ll learn

Napery. What to do about that crease in your tablecloth, how to use a table runner, and the history of napkin rings ( they came into use not for decoration, but for an exceedingly practical purpose!)

China. The difference between a rim soup bowl and a rimless coupe soup bowl, when to bring out the coffee cups, and why we call it “china”

Silver. Basic rules for arranging the setting (evenly spaced, about a half-inch apart, with the handle bottoms lined up), using flatware to signal you’ve finished eating, and why the fork was slow to catch on as a dining implement

Crystal. How to tell a red wine glass from a white wine glass, when to use a dof glass, and what famous European queen is said to have been the model for a champagne coupe glass

Table Décor. Why place cards are always a good idea (and where to put them), the evolution of centerpieces, and how to turn a napkin into a cardinal’s hat, a bishop’s mitre, or even an artichoke

Elements of the Table covers everything from linens to basic etiquette, so your next dinner party (whether you’re hosting or attending) will be a relaxed celebration–and the only astonishment will come at the end of the night, when you realize how much fun you’ve had.

128 pages, Hardcover

First published April 24, 2007

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful concise little book.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting book full of lots of good information, but it doesn't have everything in it on table manners and etiquette and there are some places where it is somewhat confusing. The book has wonderful illustrations. I didn't read it cover to cover, but would refer to it again with questions about table manners and etiquette.

[Ema · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought my table manners were pretty good, but I'm appalled at how many rules of etiquette I've been utterly oblivious to as a hostess and as a diner as well. It's quite an enlightening read so far.

[Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything you ever wanted to know about table manners just in case you had to dine with the Queen of England.