Since the 18th century, the samovar has been an integral part of Russian domestic culture. Traditionally, the samovar is a metal container with various attachments used to boil water for hot beverages, such as chai, green tea, honey-based and spice-based drinks. As it is necessary for samovars to endure high heats, they are crafted from durable materials, from copper and tin to silver and gold. The use of samovars also spread with time to regions in the Middle East and Asia, including Iran, Turkey and Kashmir. Although samovars are generally considered humble, everyday items, many are decorated with elaborate designs created by embossing, engraving and painting. Today, migration has brought samovar culture to the Western world, with samovar tea houses being enjoyed worldwide. Decorative samovars have also become a popular interior design trend in recent years.
