Cup plates have been a popular collectible for many years yet many peple do not know their history and use. During the eighteenth and nineteenth century, one was sometimes invited to have a "a dish of tea." At that time tea was served in a handless cup with a deep saucer without a ridge for centering the cup. The plates measuring 2-1/2 to 4-1/2 inches were made of pressed glass, blown glass, china or ironstone. They were produced in a great number of designs and variations. The tea, which was served very hot was poured into the cup, then poured into the saucer for cooling. When cooled, the tea was sipped from the deep saucer. The teacup was then placed on the cup plate serving as a coaster, to prevent damaging the fine lines and furniture.

The present day tendency to appreciate and collect Americana had led to a revival in the production and collecting of cup plates. Many original designed cup plates as well as their reproductions have appeared on the market. These plates have become highly collectible for their color, beauty, and artistic design and/or symbolic significance.

Remember , all Pairpoint products are made in limited quantities. Therefore, we cannot guarantee availability of any product or any color.

NOTE: The dark dot seen on some cup plates is a removable Pairpoint sticker.