Folding tea display "what-not" in mahogany — fine English cake stand from the late 19th to early 20th century.

🫖 Afternoon tea originated in England in the 1840s from an aristocratic craving: the Duchess of Bedford, unable to wait until dinner, had tea, scones, and petits fours served in her rooms. When a duchess is hungry, it’s the subjects who all celebrate tea time together! The little hunger becomes the ceremony of an Empire. And every respectable Empire creates its furniture. This three-tiered folding cake stand made of mahogany, with plates nestled in their hollow reservations, was popular between the end of the Victorian era and the reign of Edward VII. When the ceremony was over, a delicate kick folded it all up, discreetly sliding it behind a piece of furniture until the next tea. What-not means "and-what-else": the English named this piece of furniture for what it holds, everything and anything. Its versatility and lightness give this flying piece of furniture a wide range of uses: plant stand, side table for drinks in the living room, catch-all in an entryway, bedside table, display for succulents… or for jewelry and accessories in a showcase. This silent shelf plays all roles. So, 🍰 Why not what-not 🍀 Very good overall condition, satin finish of the wood, smooth mechanism. Dimensions (cm): Unfolded L26×D24×H91. Folded L26×D20×H91. Plates Ø22, reservations Ø15.