The observe of consuming tea from a shallow, lipped dish, reasonably than immediately from the cup, constitutes a selected methodology of beverage consumption. This strategy permits for the fast cooling of the liquid, making it palatable extra rapidly. An instance could be pouring scorching tea from a cup right into a saucer after which rigorously sipping it from the sting.
Traditionally, this system was prevalent because of the excessive price and fragility of porcelain teacups, which frequently lacked handles of their early designs. The saucer supplied a handy option to handle and devour the recent beverage with out burning oneself. This methodology allowed people to take pleasure in their tea at an appropriate temperature, extending the period and social facet of tea-drinking events. The observe additionally mirrored a level of etiquette and refinement, notably in sure social circles.