Russian Samovar - The Most Beautiful Tea Kettle Ever

Samovar is a crucial part of Russian tea drinking tradition. It's also considered to be one of the symbols of Russia in general (along with balalaika, matryoshka and vodka :)



If you don't know what Russian Samovar is, here are some facts about samovars:

- A samovar (literally "self-boiler") is a heated metal container traditionally used to heat and boil water in and around Russia, as well as in other Central, South-Eastern, Eastern European countries, and in the Middle-East.

- Since the heated water is usually used for making tea, many samovars have an attachment on the tops of their lids to hold and heat a teapot filled with tea concentrate.

- Samovars are said to have been invented in Central Asia, though their origin is a matter of dispute. For example, some argue that it is purely a Russian invention given that the samovar appeared in Iran not later than in 18th century, and it bears the same Russian name "samovar" which translates to self-brewer.

- Though traditionally heated with coal or charcoal, many newer samovars use electricity and heat water in a similar manner as an electric water boiler.

The topic of the tea drinking has often been in the focus of Russian artists' attention. This work, for example, is called "Wife of a Merchant". It belongs to Boris Kustodiev - Russian artist from the turn of the last century.



I believe that this artwork is a great reflection of Russian tea drinking tradition. Look at this woman: she is so calm and relaxed enjoying her tea and delicious food. Feels like she can drink her tea for hours, cup after cup.

This is what the drinking tea tradition is about: not thirst satisfying but enjoying the process. So get yourself a beautiful Russian samovar and enjoy your tea party!