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 The book contains lively and pithy contemporary quotes from literature, diaries, trade catalogues and historical documents together with a selection of illustrations.
- ISBN10 075093283X
- ISBN13 9780750932837
- Publish Date 16 October 2003
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher The History Press Ltd
- Imprint Sutton Publishing Ltd
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 192
- Language English