The History of Teacups

The earliest version of the teacup was actually a hand-formed ceramic bowl created in China. Then in the 1600s, the English were introduced to tea via the East India Trading Company. Because tea was originally only for the English upper class who wanted a suitably fancy vessel to drink it out of, the teacup was born! The first teacups were made using porcelain imported from China and often featured delicate patterns and finishes. In 1774, Josiah Wedgwood invented an unglazed stoneware called jasper and teacups made from the material became incredibly popular. They were usually blue and embellished with reliefs of classical figures or gods. He also created demitasses (small half-cups) that were so popular that Queen Charlotte even commissioned a set for herself! In the 18th century, tea became popular in Russia, where Fabergé, the design house famous for its bejeweled eggs, created a new style of teacup – a glass flute in a delicate silver-and-enamel holder. Today, there are many styles of teacups to choose from and each features unique patterns and colors, so you can find one that perfectly matches your style!