Defining the Tea Set

• A western definition of a tea set not only includes the tea pot and cups, but is generally inclusive of the creamer and sugar bowl and often the tray upon which they are stored and carried. Often the centerpiece of the afternoon tea party, the tea set is also used in a very utilitarian manner for guests, family gatherings or a personal tea break.
  
  

Brief History of Tea Sets

• Original tea sets were not sets at all. The origin of tea is historically connected with China. During the Han Dynasty, 206 to 220 B.C., tea was a combination of tea leaves formed into cakes. The cakes were crushed together in a bowl with spices and flower petals. The flavors and power of the tea was released by the addition of hot water. The mixture was served in a bowl for sipping, usually for medicinal purposes. These bowls were created in porcelain and were either colored white, indicating they were made in the north of China, or blue, indicative of the southern area of China.
  
  

What Type of Tea Sets Are Collectible?

• Today, the collecting of tea sets includes many styles, historical eras, countries and artisans. Of course the older and more precious the teaware, the more prized the item for a collector. From toy tea sets dating to the 1680s, to miniature tea sets, to the very first full-service tea sets of Queen Victoria's era, collectors can direct their focus across an inspired variety of descriptive points. Often serious collectors look for a particular artisan's work.
  
  

Are Tea Sets Only Made of Porcelain?

• Originally made of porcelain, teaware and tea sets have been made from a broad list of materials. Silver is a well known material that marks the wealth of the owner. Iron was a very popular material in Japan. Bamboo tea sets are also found along with mixed sets using metal and wood combinations. Porcelain and ceramic tea sets probably outnumber all other materials used. A recent material, in the last century, is plastic. There are also companies producing "green" tea sets made of recycled materials.
  
  

What to Look for When Collecting Tea Sets

• Before beginning to collect tea sets, research the topic. Research will tell you which materials take the greatest amount of skill to work with, who the favored artisans were, and why a particular style holds sway over the others. Find your point of entry into the history of tea and teaware by finding your passion within the subject.