samovars

A samovar is a traditional Russian metal pot used for boiling and serving tea. It is typically made of copper, brass, or stainless steel, and is often decorated with intricate designs. The samovar is a central piece of Russian tea ceremony, known as chaynye gosti, which involves the preparation and serving of tea in a formal setting. The word "samovar" is derived from the Russian words "samo" meaning "self" and "varit" meaning "to boil," reflecting the pot's ability to boil water without the need for an external heat source. The samovar is usually placed on a samovarny stol, a special table designed to hold the samovar and other tea accessories. The tea ceremony involves pouring the hot water from the samovar into a teapot, which is then used to brew the tea. The tea is typically served in small cups, accompanied by a variety of sweets and pastries. The samovar has become a symbol of Russian hospitality and is often used in modern times for informal gatherings as well.