Design for Tea: Tea Wares from the Dragon Court to Afternoon Tea

by Jane Pettigrew

Why did polite society lift its little finger along when raising the tea-cup to the mouth? What is a mote spoon? What is the origin of the word "caddy"? This book takes readers through the various groups of tea equipage used over the past 350 years. The story behind the development of the various pieces of tea brewing and drinking equipment all have a tale to tell - sometimes an extraordinary one. Learn why Cruickshank's poor Frenchman was compelled to drink 14 cups of tea because he didn't understand the custom of standing the spoon in the cup to indicate that one had had enough. The book contains lively and pithy contemporary quotes from literature, diaries, trade catalogues and historical documents together with a selection of illustrations.

Genres: Tea, Nonfiction, Food and Drink, Cookbooks

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2003

About the author

Jane Pettigrew is a tea specialist, historian, writer and consultant. Since 1983, she has been working in the UK and around the world to explain and share the fascinating world of tea.

She has written 15 books on the many and varied aspects of tea, its production, history and culture, and she writes for tea related magazines and journals.

She also gives regular tea masterclasses and tea tastings, speaks on radio and TV and acts as consultant to tea companies, new tea businesses, table ware and tea ware companies.

Reviews

[SJ Brown]

Everything I ever wanted to know about the tea accouterments I use for afternoon tea. it made me want to go shopping for more tea ware!

[Rebecca Huston]

A great book on the evolution and design of china, silver and other objects for displaying, serving and brewing tea. Not very long, with lots of illustrations. Very much recommended for tea junkies.

[Marcella Bongiovanni]

Interessante ma lo consigliere solo ad appassionati, collezionisti o chi desidera aprire un negozio.