Tea glass holder “Bronze Rider” made of 925 silver with tea glass

This tea glass holder features an equestrian relief on its outer wall: a mounted figure sits in an oval medallion framed by a laurel wreath, crafted in solid 925 sterling silver. Made by ArgentA, the holder is called the Bronze Horseman and is part of a series that translates Russian symbolism into silver and blackened detailing.

At a glance

• Material: solid 925 sterling silver with blackened detailing
• Holder: H 95 x Ø 72 mm, approx. 129 g of silver, equestrian relief in medallion, handle
• Tea glass: H 100 x Ø 65 mm, 200 ml capacity, diamond-cut pattern
• Manufacturer: ArgentA, Russia
• Hallmarked: yes
• Engraving: possible on the base of the glass holder; the medallion relief remains the focal point
• Delivery: includes gift box with velvet insert

Material and craftsmanship

The holder is made of solid 925 sterling silver, with no coating, silver plating or filler material. Approx. 129 g of silver give the piece a weight you can feel the moment you pick it up—substantially more than a thin sheet-metal holder. At the center of the outer wall is an oval medallion framed by a laurel wreath, with the equestrian figure in relief inside. The blackening, a dark surface treatment applied specifically to the recessed areas of the relief, brings the figure into three-dimensional focus and makes the bright, raised areas stand out sharply. It is neither painted on nor lacquered, but forms part of the surface itself, so it will not rub off with normal use, and the contrast tends to deepen with care. The included diamond-cut tea glass, H 100 x Ø 65 mm, 200 ml, is designed to match the holder. ArgentA is a Russian manufacturer with many years of experience in producing silver tableware; the holders are hallmarked.

Use and occasions

A podstakannik, literally “what stands under the glass,” is a metal holder traditionally used in Russia to hold a tea glass while drinking. This tradition originated, among other places, on Russian railways in the 19th century, where tea in a glass was more practical than in a cup that could tip over on the table. This holder makes a fitting Mother’s Day or Father’s Day gift for anyone who appreciates history, symbolism and Russian silver craftsmanship. As a business gift, a silver object with a figural relief on a desk makes a conversation piece that goes beyond an ordinary present. This holder is also a fitting choice in both theme and quality for collectors of Russian silver tableware.

Care

Clean the tea glass holder by hand with warm water and mild dish soap; do not put it in the dishwasher. Use a soft silver polishing cloth to polish it. The blackened detailing sits in the recessed areas of the relief and is sensitive to rough cloths or abrasive products, so avoid these as they could damage the polished areas of the design. Wash the tea glass separately by hand.

Frequently asked questions

Is the holder made of real silver or silver-plated?
The holder is made of solid 925 sterling silver, with no coating or silver plating.

What is the blackening, and can it come off?
The blackening is a dark surface treatment applied to the recessed areas of the relief. It is neither lacquer nor paint, but part of the surface itself, and will not come off with normal use and proper care.

Is engraving possible?
Yes, on the base of the glass holder. The equestrian relief fills the central area of the outer wall and remains untouched as the focal point. Add the engraving service flat fee to your cart together with the holder; we will then confirm the wording with you. We also offer a SilberVerse card in a 15 x 10 cm landscape photo format, custom-designed and free of charge.

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Find more podstakanniki with figural relief in our selection of 925 silver tableware and silverware. For more occasion ideas, browse our 925 silver gift ideas.