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Russian tea
drinking is often associated with the use of tea glasses
rather than ceramic cups and saucers. To accommodate the
hot glass, metal tea glass holders with attached handles -
Podstakanniks - became popular among tea drinkers in the
late 18th century. The holders provide both a stable way
to carry the hot cup and a handle to lift the hot glass to
drink. These delightful metal holders (some can be silver
or silver-plate) and their etched crystal glasses became a
familiar sight aboard Russian trains during the 20th
century.
Podstakanniks can be found in many styles, with designs
that depict historical events, cities, and famous people.
Others are fashioned in elegant geometric or flowing
filigree designs.
Our Podstakanniks are all that remain from an inventory of
Russian items that we sold 15-20 years ago. They are
fashioned of fine, intricate filigree wire work (also
called bobbins lace) and are most likely silver-plate over
copper wire. We believe that these were made in the town
of Mstera.
The glasses are original to the holders, and are etched
crystal. All pieces are in perfect condition (no breaks in
the filigree).
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