Synopses & Reviews
History students and Victorian enthusiasts looking for comprehensive information on dining practices of Victorian America will find this book a vital resource. Revealing the history of 19th-century dining, clothing, and etiquette, the volume includes sample menus and explicit instructions explaining how to recreate a dinner, tea, breakfast, or lunch in the 21st century. Collectors of china, crystal, and silver will also find this book helpful because it provides a photograph of each piece of tableware that was used, with a history and description of the item.
After explaining the different dining styles and the way they evolved into rituals of the Victorian era, a formal dinner is examined course by course. The Schollanders present the history and uses of various wines and show they were matched with different foods. They also explain the evolution of silver, crystal, and china pieces. Additionally the book includes an explanation of the seating order at the Victorian table, correct Victorian table manners, invitations and menu cards, correct dress for dinner guests, correct table settings, the role of servants, and step-by-step instructions for recreating a formal Victorian dinner, tea, breakfast, or lunch.
Review
For the conscientious reader, this book is a history lesson bound to inspire countless mealtime conversations about why the salad has been served first and whether or not the host should wear a hat.ForeWord
Review
...a helpful reference tool for answering all sorts of silverware and chinaware identification questions as well as explaining each item's function.Booklist
Synopsis
Provides a complete reference to the history and tableware of Victorian dining in America, with sample menus and directions on how to recreate your own Victorian dinner party or tea.
Synopsis
History students and Victorian enthusiasts looking for comprehensive information on dining practices of Victorian America will find this book a vital resource. Revealing the history of 19th-century dining, clothing, and etiquette, the volume includes sample menus and explicit instructions explaining how to recreate a dinner, tea, breakfast, or lunch in the 21st century. Collectors of china, crystal, and silver will also find this book helpful because it provides a photograph of each piece of tableware that was used, with a history and description of the item.
Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references (p. [283]-290) and index.
About the Author
WENDELL SCHOLLANDER is a practicing lawyer. He and his wife have collected Victorian etiquette books, silver, and porcelain over a period of twenty-five years.WES SCHOLLANDER is a student at Wake Forest Law School. In addition to growing up discussing the proper placement of forks at formal dinners, he has backpacked around the world, been named a Presidential Point of Light for conservation work, served as a missionary in Central America, has art work in museums, and speaks four languages.
Table of Contents
Introduction
A Short History of the Art of Dining
History of Dinners and Styles of Dining
Decoding the Food in a Victorian Meal
Wine and Other Beverages: A History and Explanation
The Accoutrements
Silver
China
Crystal
Invitations and Cards
Status and Etiquette
Victorian Status Seating Order at the Table
Victorian Etiquette and Table Manners
The Dinner Stage and the Props
Dress 1840-1914
Setting the Victorian Table
The Formal Meal as a Performance
The Progression of the Meal
Giving Your Own Elegant Dinners
Giving Your Own Victorian Dinner
Other Elegant Entertaining
Tea, Coffee, and Chocolate
Breakfast and Lunch
Additional Information
Glossary
Further Reading
Index