I've had this set forever (well, close) and I remember my Mom telling me it was a cigarette set...cigarettes go in the little cup and the saucers are used as ashtrays....kind of sad to do that to such a pretty set. But I can't imagine what else the set would be for...anyway, it's quite lovely and I don't believe it's ever been used. Gold Greek Key design on pure white. Marks on all pieces: indicates the set was hand painted. The plates measure 3 3/4"