Vintage EPNS (silver plate) leather bound and silk lined afternoon tea set

Vintage epns (silver plate) leather bound and silk lined afternoon tea set. This lovely set of 4 consisting of sugar nips / cake slice/ tea spoon/ tea strainer is in a lovely original box. It has 576605 visible which is probably a registration number.

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Some age related wear

13 cm wide 17 cm depth 2 cm tall

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Overview

Afternoon tea, a beloved British tradition, originated in the early 19th century with Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford. She found herself hungry in the afternoon, long before dinner, and started having tea and a light snack as a solution. This practice became increasingly popular and evolved into the grand social event it is today.

Here's a more detailed look at the history:

Early 1840s:

Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, found the wait between lunch and dinner (which was served at 8 pm) too long and requested a tray of tea, bread and butter, and cake in the afternoon.

Social Event:

Initially, it was a private affair, but the Duchess began inviting friends, and the practice gained popularity.

Spread of Affluence:

As tea became more affordable, the custom spread to the middle class and beyond.

Evolution of the Menu:

The original light snack gradually evolved to include finger sandwiches, scones, and a variety of pastries and cakes.

Formalization and Ritual:

Tea receptions, where individuals would come and go at their leisure, further formalized the tradition, particularly when Queen Victoria engaged in it.