The origins of Tea Service can be traced back to ancient China, long before its arrival in England. Legend has it that in 2737 BC, Emperor Shen Nung’s servant inadvertently boiled tea leaves in drinking water, leading to the discovery of this beloved beverage. Archaeological evidence supports this early history, with tea found in tombs dating back to 206 BC. By the Tang dynasty (618-906 AD), tea had become China’s national drink.
Tea’s journey to England began in 1662 when Catherine of Braganza, the Portuguese princess who married Charles II, brought a chest of tea as part of her dowry. She established a sophisticated tea culture within the royal court, popularizing the beverage among the English aristocracy. This newfound appreciation for tea inspired Edmund Waller’s 1663 poem, “Of Tea, Commended by Her Majesty.”
Over time, tea evolved from a courtly pleasure to a common household staple, often valued for its perceived medicinal properties. This belief in tea’s health benefits, still held by herbalists today, placed women in charge of managing and brewing tea within the home. Interestingly, while women controlled the household tea box, men were the sole patrons of coffeehouses, the public venues where tea was served. Paintings from the 17th to 19th centuries often depict the tea box positioned near the highest-ranking female in the household, highlighting its significance.
Excluded from public tea consumption, women cultivated their own tea rituals at home. Anna Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, is often credited with establishing the tradition of afternoon tea, a light meal featuring sandwiches and sweets served with tea. However, some historians argue that this practice predates her. During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, “tea” encompassed a range of occasions, from “Low Tea,” a simple cup of tea with a scone or bread, to “High Tea,” a more substantial meal. The latter often included heartier fare, reflecting its origins as a working-class evening meal. Understanding these distinctions illuminates the nuances of tea service etiquette and its historical evolution.
The enduring popularity of tea service speaks to its versatility and adaptability. Whether a simple afternoon refreshment or a grand social occasion, the act of sharing tea transcends cultural boundaries and continues to foster connection and conversation. The rich history of tea, from its accidental discovery in ancient China to its elaborate expressions in modern society, underscores its enduring appeal as a cherished beverage and cultural ritual.
