Large Russian Sosenkov Tula Copper Samovar, Early 20th Century

Antique samovar,coal-fired hot water dispenser, made of copper with a tray and bowl
Two drooping side handlesmade of turned wood, wooden knobs, and a partially openwork spout
Square base resting onfour small feet
Hallmarks of the Nikolai Sosenkov factory in Tula on the lid and body of the samovar; also onthe tray and bowl. Marked 1903
Period: early 20th
Dimensions: 50x30 cm, tray45x25 cm; weight 5.5 kg
Good condition
On-site pickup preferred,shipping available
The samovar (from the Russian “samo,”“self,” and “var,” to boil) is inspired by Mongolian kettles used since the 13th century. In the late 18th century, Russia began producing them inTula, the heart of the Russian metallurgical industry, not far from Moscow. The product quickly became popular and was exported to Eastern countries such as Afghanistan and Iraq. In the 19th century, Tula had 28 samovar factories, with an annual production of approximately 120,000 samovars. This industry gave rise to the expression “bringing one’s own samovar to Tula,” which describes a pointless action. The Nikolai Sosenkov factory (also known as “Sosenkov and Sokolov”) was founded in the second half of the 19th century; it produced copper and brass samovars heated with coal. The brand’shallmarks are stamped on the lid and body (usually “Sosenkovand Sokolov in Tula” or “N. Sosenkov”). Sosenkov samovars are now considered rare antiques, sought after by collectors. A few examples can be found at the Museum of Samovars and Boulyotokas (in the village ofGrumant) or at the Tula Samovar Museum.