Spoon Warmers

Spoon Warmers

Even wealthy homes in Victorian Britain were often poorly heated and thus very cold for much of the year. Hot food is not only appetising, but was considered proof of a well-run household. Serving food with a cold spoon was also thought to accelerate the cooling process. A decorative container filled with hot water to keep serving spoons and ladles warm was a perfect solution, allowing food to be served at the right temperature, and fitting in with all of the other items found in a fashionable late 19th century dining room. The earliest spoon warmers date from the 1860's and a silver nautilus or other type of shell, often on a sea-shore themed base, was a popular shape for a spoon warmer.