Beautifully designed tea or silver tables came into use in the late 18th and 19th centuries as the wealthy British invited guests to partake of tea in their residences. Everything needed for a proper tea was on display on these ornamental tables, and most of the wares were made of silver - hence the names tea or silver tables.

 

Chinese Chippendale is a mid-18th century decorative style that emerged in England inspired by the exoticism of the Far East, resulting in a fusion of Chinese and English design elements.  The style is characterized by use of intricate fretwork and latticework, as well as delicate carvings.  Often Chinese Chippendale pieces have pagoda-like shape. It was made popular by the renowned English furniture maker Thomas Chippendale (1755-1790), who incorporated the style into his designs.  Chinese Chippendale was particularly popular during the Georgian and Regency periods.