Tea Time!

'Dainty Afternoon Tea Poster', ca.1935. From Dodo.

As far as great British customs go, drinking tea surely must be one of the greatest. A cuppa for breakfast, another with the afternoon scone, always one or two in between and certainly one to finish off the long working day. At Alfies this week we had a look around to find those items - dried leaves to the side - that help Britain's love for tea stand the test of time and feed the long loving tradition!

From beautiful flowery sets...

Carlton Ware 'Tea for Two' Set. From W&L Antiques

Susie Cooper for Wedgewood Cornpoppy design set, 1974. From Daumieres.

Japanese high grade silver 4 piece set. From Janes Antiques.

...over pieces for that special time alone...

Very rare tea bowl and saucer, Worcester ca 1755. From Janes Antiques.

...to stunning tea pots!

Very rare silver teapot by Peter and Jonathon Bateman. From Janes Antiques.

Not to forget the wonderful range of 'tea accessoires' one can indulge in, such as this great selection of tea cosies including Victorian silk, patchwork, velvet and beadwork cosies dating as far back as 1860.

Tea Coosie Selection. From June Victor.

And for the truly devoted to which the simple pleasures of a colourful warm pot are not enough, we also found some extraordinary pieces to highten the mood!

Victorian Spoon Warmer by William Hutton. From Goldsmith & Perris.

Old Shell Biscuit Box by Fenton Brothers. From Goldsmith & Perris.

Enjoy your tea!