The apply of consuming tea from a shallow, lipped dish, slightly than immediately from the cup, constitutes a particular methodology of beverage consumption. This method permits for the speedy cooling of the liquid, making it palatable extra rapidly. An instance could be pouring sizzling tea from a cup right into a saucer after which fastidiously sipping it from the sting.
Traditionally, this method was prevalent as a result of excessive price and fragility of porcelain teacups, which regularly lacked handles of their early designs. The saucer supplied a handy approach to handle and devour the recent beverage with out burning oneself. This methodology allowed people to get pleasure from their tea at an acceptable temperature, extending the period and social facet of tea-drinking events. The apply additionally mirrored a level of etiquette and refinement, significantly in sure social circles.