FEATURES ARCHIVE

 “There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.” - Henry James (1843-1916), British author

When tea was first introduced to Europe in the 17th century it was a very expensive commodity, and the few aristocratic ladies who were in possession of the precious leaves would keep them under lock and key. Originally introduced to Europe by Dutch and Portuguese traders, tea proved to be enormously popular and was adopted into high society as part of a refined and elegant afternoon ceremony. Drinking tea and coffee in style became fashionable and owning beautiful tableware from prestigious porcelain suppliers was considered an important status symbol. The forthcoming sale will include a selection of fine 18th century Meissen and Sèvres porcelain tableware embellished with hand painted pictures of birds. The pieces were all individually labored over to create items that would compliment the wealth of their owner and match the pomp and ceremony of afternoon tea and coffee. These charming objects are still just as usable today to make that cup of tea or coffee with a friend or loved one just a little more special.