A “charger” is a plate that is more significant in diameter than a dinner plate. It is also referred to as a service plate or an underplate. While chargers are used for decorative purposes these days, they used to be primarily to protect the table from hot plates being placed directly on top of the table’s wood surface. They date back to the 15th century. Chargers vary in size from 11-14″ in diameter.
Food is never served on the charger itself. Instead, the dinner plate is placed on top of the charger. Additional courses may also be served on the charger.
Do you know when NOT to use a charger? The dessert course! A charger is permanently removed before the dessert course is served.
Chargers have become a popular decoration for dinner tables in recent decades. They are made of various materials and have endless color options. The most traditional style of charger is made of porcelain or silver. For formal dinner parties, I prefer silver because it complements the other silver accouterments on my table (candlesticks, wine coasters, flatware, serving pieces) and adds a hint of glamour to enhance the notable occasion.
Chargers are often used to decorate the table for visual interest and are then removed, as is frequently done in private clubs or restaurants.
Chargers are rarely used in a proper English country house. My dear friend, the Executive Director of The English Manner, William Hanson (with his brilliant British sense of humor) summarizes the use of chargers: “They serve no practical use as you do not eat off one and are, frankly, a waste of money!”
Grandmillennial Tips:
Another way to repurpose a charger/service plate is to place it underneath a flower arrangement. It collects the fallen pollen and enhances, reflects, and frames the arrangement!
Pretty porcelain chargers may also be used as unique artwork by creating a design on a wall using plate hangers.
Consider using a charger to serve hors d’oeuvres. They are the perfect size for small gatherings.
