A saucer - what is it, who invented it and what is it for?

Every family has this kind of tableware - a saucer. This type of plate is distinguished by its small size and curved edges. It is used as a stand under tea and coffee mugs, as well as under glasses, so that liquid does not spill onto the tablecloth during careless movement.

What is a saucer?

The dishes do not have certain, precise dimensions that would be approved in the GOSTs. All dictionaries indicate that this is a small plate used as a stand. It is often used to serve cakes, pastries and sweets for tea.

In our country, several deeply established traditions are associated with it. For example, having tea, sipping from a plate.

Historical reference

The progenitor of the saucer is considered to be an ordinary plate, which was invented in modern form in China. The history of the device began approximately in the 3rd - 4th millennium BC. Later, in the XIII-XIV centuries, the product came to the territory of modern Turkey, where it underwent changes and acquired the shape of the current device.

In European countries, the saucer is somewhat different in appearance from Russian specimens. This is directly related to the traditions that are associated with this type of tableware for the Russian people.

Traditions associated with dishes

Since ancient times, a common habit of people is to drink tea from a plate. It is believed that this way the liquid cools down faster and tea is much more pleasant, sipping a drink with a characteristic sip.

In Europe, such a ritual of tea drinking was not accepted, but nevertheless in some countries they understood all the friendliness of such a process and are happy to use this method.

Saucer types

Many varieties can be found on sale today. Among them are not only porcelain and ceramic products, they are intended for laying out a dessert, drinking tea at a samovar and portioned jam.

Also sold are wooden and earthenware saucers that are used for decorative purposes. Often these varieties are used for nuts, seeds and other toppings. Clay ones are also used as souvenirs: they are often painted with hand-made patterns.

A saucer today is a part of any service. They must be included in a set of dishes for the holidays and everyday use.