The History of Tea and its Oriental Influence on Global Culture
Tea, one of the world’s most popular beverages, has a history that spans centuries and continents. Its journey from simple leaves to an international staple is closely tied to the traditions of China and Japan, which heavily influenced tea culture in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Tea originated in ancient China over 4,000 years ago, initially valued for its medicinal properties. By the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), it had become a central part of Chinese social customs, and its cultural importance grew further during the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD).
In the 19th century, European demand for Chinese tea soared as trade expanded. The intricate artistry of Chinese tea sets, often decorated with motifs like cherry blossoms, bamboo, and landscapes, captivated Western tastes. These designs reflected the Chinese values of harmony and respect for nature.
Antique early-20th Century Chinese export solid silver exquisite five piece tea set on tray, comprising of a coffee pot, teapot, covered sugar bowl with later plated tongs and milk jug on serving trat, each spherical body applied with blooming cherry blossom and birds in high relief on matted ground, spout and handle modelled as a bamboo. Hallmarked Chinese Export (tested 900+ standard), circa 1900's, Maker SIUKEE (Siu Kee, Hong Kong)
Reference Number: A8594
Japanese tea traditions also shaped global tea culture. The tea ceremony, or chanoyu, emphasised mindfulness and simplicity. However, Japanese decorative art often incorporated bold and dramatic designs.
During the Meiji period (1868–1912), Japanese artisans created highly ornamental tea wares for Western markets. Dragons, symbolising strength and protection, were common motifs on silver tea sets, which featured detailed, hand-etched designs. These pieces became prized for both their beauty and craftsmanship.
20th Century Japanese Meiji period silver large seven-piece tea and coffee service on tray, comprising: a teapot, a coffee pot, a kettle on stand, a cream jug, a covered sugar bowl, a waste bowl, a covered entree dish on stand, and a large two-handled oval tray. Simply exceptional and magnificent quality, chased and embossed with compressed chrysanthemum flowers in very high relief, with elegant dragon-form handles, body applied with petal shaped spouts, realistically modelled dragons applied with elongated flowing whiskers and sharp claws.
Hallmarked with the makers mark for Konoike, Yokohama, Pure Silver.
Reference Number: A5618 / A5600
India also played a significant role in the global tea tradition. Renowned silversmiths like Grish Chunder Dutt and Oomersi Mawji crafted exquisite tea sets that combined Indian artistry with functional elegance. These pieces often featured intricate repoussé work and traditional motifs, such as floral patterns and depictions of local wildlife, reflecting India’s rich cultural heritage.
Antique early 20th Century Indian solid silver three piece tea set. Repoussé decorated in relief with figures, floral patterns, villages in a landscape and farming life, this type of decoration is typically from Calcutta, more precisesly from Bovanipore, where, among others, the silver manufacturer Dutt had a prolific workshop operating from the late 19th Century unitl the early 20th. All pieces are hallmarked "Grish Chunder Dutt, Bhowanipore, Calcutta".
Reference Number: A11018
In Europe, particularly in England, tea became a symbol of refinement. By the 19th century, afternoon tea had become a social institution. This created a demand for elegant tea sets, leading to a golden age of silversmithing.
Prominent English silversmiths, such as JAHES (Joseph, Albert, Horace & Ethelbert Savory), produced tea sets that combined function with ornate decoration. Inspired by Oriental motifs, these designs often included cherry blossoms and dragons, blended with Western patterns. The result was a distinctive style that reflected a fusion of cultures.
19th Century Victorian Aesthetic Movement silver tea & coffee service, comprising of a hot water kettle, coffee pot, teapot, sugar bowl, cream jug and tray. The set is extremely unusual and rare in design and finely crafted, engraved with highly-decorative flowers and birds in the oriental inspired style.
Hallmarked English silver (925), London, year 1880 (E), 1881 (F), Maker's mark JAHES for Joseph, Albert, Horace & Ethelbert Savory, Retailed by Goldsmiths Alliance Limited.
Reference Number: A6004
This item is eligible for the Pushkin’s Promise scheme.
Silversmiths often crafted bespoke tea sets for royalty and the upper classes. These sets, made from sterling or solid silver, featured elaborate designs such as gilding, repoussé work, and sculpted figures. They elevated tea drinking to an art form and showcased the height of luxury.
The tea culture of the 19th and 20th centuries highlights the exchange of ideas between East and West. The cherry blossoms of Chinese porcelain, the dragons of Japanese silver, and the ornate tea sets of European silversmiths each tell a story of cultural admiration.