Description: Georgian Copper and Brass Samovar Circa 1835. Ref. MA/35
Maker: Unknown, but English Georgian. Possible manufacturer could be J.S. Pryke & Sons
Date: Estimated around the 1835 era.
History: The samovar is said to be a Russian invention around the 1750s but this has been disputed. However, the name Samovar is thought to be either from the Russian words samo and varit meaning self-boiling or the Tatar word sanabar meaning tea-urn which sounds more logical. Either way, the samovar was found in virtually every household and eventually was copied in Europe. It was used especially for boiling water which was then added to a strong tea solution which was made separately in a small teapot. I found this rather interesting observation Before the samovar is brought to the table the boiler is filled with water, lighted chips and charcoal are placed in the vertical pipe, and an extra length of pipe is placed on top to draw the flame. When the charcoal is glowing steadily and the water is boiling, this source of forty-odd cups of good cheer is borne into the room and placed on a silver tray at the right hand of the hostess ...
Marks/Observations: The samovar has the typical classical urn shape, possibly influenced by the Adams design. It shows a domed lid with a finial in the shape of a fire through which the smoke would escape. The brass spigot has an arched handle, finished by a large glass bead and the whole body rests on a shaped brass column ending in a square base.
Condition: Overall in reasonably good condition, the lid does show some damage from being dropped, there has been some repair work to the handles and the copper body also shows some slight dings. However, considering the age (nearly two hundred years old) it still remains a very important piece.
Dimensions: The samovar stands approximately 47 cm in height with a width, including the handles, of 28 cm and a depth, including the tap, of approximately 27 cm.
Price: R2000,00
Shipping: R160.00 By Postnet couriers
Please note, I am NOT a qualified archaeologist/antiquarian and the description I have given is based on research of the subject.
This is a genuine antique. Please remember the classification of an 'antique' is that it should be 100 years old, OR MORE.
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