Silver tea service
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
A silver tea service is an expensive tea set. It is usually the households's best and is used following formal dinners, or at a tea party.
A silver tea service generally comprises:
- teapot
- teacups and saucers
- sugar bowl
- milk pitcher also known as a creamer or jug
- kettle
- slop bowl
- tea strainer
- serving tray
A silver tea service is always presented on a tray. While a set of teaspoons is a necessity, as is a sugar spoon or sugar tongs, cutlery is not included as part of the tea service.
In a very formal household, the tea service is cared for by the footman, under the supervision of the butler, who is responsible for the household silver.