Podstakannik

Common card · No. 490449

The podstakannik (Russian: подстака́нник [pət͡sstɐˈkanʲːɪk], literally "thing under the glass"), or tea glass holder, is a holder with a handle, most commonly made of metal that holds a drinking glass (stakan). Their primary purpose is to be able to hold a very hot glass of tea, which is usually consumed right after it is brewed. The stability of the glass on the table is also significantly improved. It is a traditional way of serving and drinking tea in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Poland, and some other Slavic states. In the 21st century, the podstakannik mostly lost its utilitarian functions and became a souvenir or gift item. The only exception is represented by Russian railroads, where the podstakannik is still used due to the stability it adds to the glass.

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