====== Product Index: The Anatomy of the Table ======

Tableware is categorized by its function and placement on the table. Understanding the correct terminology for each piece is essential for professional hospitality, formal dining etiquette, and collection management.

This index classifies items into four primary categories: **Dinnerware**, **Flatware**, **Drinkware**, and **Serveware**.

===== 1. Dinnerware (Plates and Bowls) =====

Also known as "Crockery," these are the main vessels used for serving and eating food.

  * **[[:en:items:plates|Plates]]** \\ From the large **Charger Plate** (decorative base) to the **Dinner Plate**, **Salad Plate**, and the small **Bread & Butter Plate**.
  * **[[:en:items:bowls|Bowls]]** \\ Includes **Soup Bowls** (with or without rims), **Cereal Bowls**, and formal **Consommé Cups**.
  * **[[:en:items:specialty_dishes|Specialty Dishes]]** \\ Items like **Ramekins**, **Sauce Boats**, and **Egg Cups**.

===== 2. Flatware & Cutlery (The Tools) =====

These are the implements used for handling and cutting food. High-quality sets are often made of [[:en:materials:stainless_steel|18/10 Stainless Steel]].

  * **[[:en:items:knives|Knives]]** \\ Dinner Knife, Steak Knife, Fish Knife, and Butter Spreader.
  * **[[:en:items:forks|Forks]]** \\ Dinner Fork, Salad/Dessert Fork, Fish Fork, and Oyster Fork.
  * **[[:en:items:spoons|Spoons]]** \\ Soup Spoon, Dessert Spoon, Teaspoon, and Demitasse (Coffee) Spoon.

===== 3. Drinkware (Glassware and Stemware) =====

Vessels designed for liquids. The shape of the glass often dictates the sensory experience of the beverage.

  * **[[:en:items:wine_glasses|Wine Glasses]]** \\ Specific shapes for **Red Wine** (large bowls), **White Wine** (narrower), and **Champagne Flutes**.
  * **[[:en:items:tumblers|Tumblers & Hi-balls]]** \\ Flat-bottomed glasses for water, juice, and cocktails.
  * **[[:en:items:tea_and_coffee|Tea & Coffee Ware]]** \\ Teacups, Saucers, Coffee Mugs, and Espresso Cups.

===== 4. Serveware (The Community Pieces) =====

Items used to bring food from the kitchen to the table and to serve multiple people.

  * **[[:en:items:platters|Platters & Trays]]** \\ Large flat dishes for roasts, appetizers, or fruit.
  * **[[:en:items:tureen|Tureens & Casseroles]]** \\ Deep, covered pots for serving soups or stews.
  * **[[:en:items:pitchers|Pitchers & Carafes]]** \\ For serving water, wine, or juice at the table.

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**Visual Guide: Standard Place Setting**
[Image showing a labeled diagram of a formal place setting: Plate in center, forks on left, knives/spoons on right, glasses at top right]

===== How to Use This Index =====
  - **For Collectors**: Use the links above to identify specific pieces in your set.
  - **For Etiquette**: Visit our **[[:en:guides:table_setting|Table Setting Guide]]** to see how these items are arranged.

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