Antique Blue and Gold Floral Tea Glass Holder

  This is a vintage Soviet brass tea glass holder, known in Russian as a podstakannik, featuring a sky-blue enamel band with a decorative cranberry and white leaf motif. These holders were traditionally used to hold a very hot glass of tea, especially during travel on Russian railroads.  The item is made of brass with rich gilding and enamel decoration.  Its primary function is to allow handling of hot tea glasses and improve stability on a table.  It is a traditional item in Russia, Ukraine, and other Slavic states.  Antique enamel, gilt-bronze, in good condition. Size: 3.0 x 3.5 inches.