An impressive parcel-gilt samovar, Ivan Gubkin, Moscow, 1844

of waisted bulbous form tapering to a square base, elaborately cast and chased in Neo-Rococo style with flowers and foliage, flanked by scroll handles, the tap with mother-of-pearl spiggot, the shaped domed cover applied with floral finial, 84 standard

The interior has possibly been partially re-gilded. There are small dents to the body, which do not detract from the overall appearance of the piece. This is an impressive samovar in overall good condition consistent with age and use.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The samovar was an important attribute of a Russian household. The precursor of samovar was sbitennik which looked like a metal teakettle fitted with a heater pipe and legs and was used for heating up sbiten, a popular hot winter drink of honey and spice. However when tea became more readily available to Russians in the 18th century, samovars soon followed. Silver samovars became particularly popular among wealthy families in Moscow and St. Petersburg in the mid-19th century making their manufacture very profitable. All major firms in St. Petersburg, Moscow and Tula, including that of Ivan Gubkin, began producing silver samovars, which were valued as much for their superior heat conductivity as their beauty. These silver samovars were durable, highly ornate, and typically not more than 50cm high.   

The Moscow firm of Ivan Gubkin, the Supplier to the Imperial Court, was established in 1841 and produced and retailed fine silver wares until 1880s. The firm successfully produced finely cast and chased works, occasionally decorated with niello or enamels, which were widely exhibited at international fairs in St. Petersburg (1861), London (1862) and Moscow (1865) and received international acclaim. In 1852 Ivan Gubkin invited I. Bornikov to work as a chief workmaster and create new designs, which instantly became very popular. Gubkin's firm was one of the first to produce new and innovative designs simulating in silver other materials such as wood, textiles and furs, which were later copied by Khlebnikov, Ovchinnikov and other famous silversmiths.