Batashev Brass Charcoal Samovar, Exhibition Medals, Tula, Circa 1900

An imposing charcoal samovar manufactured in Tula, in the Russian Empire, by the Steam Samovar Manufacturing Company of the Heirs of Vasily Stepanovich Batashev, circa 1898–1917.

The thick brass cylindrical body rests on a base with four projecting legs. The tiered lid is fitted with two small knobs for gripping and a removable chimney ring. The samovar retains its side handles with dark wood grips as well as its ornamental brass spout with an ornate spout cap.

The body bears numerous marks from exhibition medals and commemorative medals, as well as the double-headed Russian imperial eagle and the manufacturer’s inscriptions. One of these inscriptions refers to the imperial approval of the company’s bylaws in April 1898. There is also a factory hallmark indicating nickel plating and the notation “1st choice,” which denotes the piece’s original classification by the manufacturer.

Founded in Tula in 1840, the Batashev family business expanded in the second half of the 19th century. Its factories received numerous awards at Russian and international industrial exhibitions, the medals from which were reproduced on their samovars.

Height
48 cm

Origin and period
Tula, Russian Empire, circa 1898–1917

Materials
Brass and wood

Condition
Natural patina, areas of oxidation that are sometimes iridescent, surface marks, and age-related wear. Functionality and watertightness have yet to be verified. Please refer to the photographs to assess the condition of the item.

SKU
K1207.0.2.071126