Japanese Export Silver Cobalt Glass Podstakannik Tea Glass Holder with Chinoiserie Dragon and Pagoda Motif
Hollowware (Tea Glass Holder / Podstakannik) · Likely a Japanese export silversmith such as Asahi or a Meiji-era artisan workshop. These pieces were frequently produced in Yokohama or Tokyo for the Western market, specifically catering to Russian and European tea-drinking traditions.
Pattern: Chinoiserie/Orientalist Scene; featuring pagodas, bridges, and dragons. Not a standard pattern-name collection but a traditional export design common from 1890-1930.
Type
Hollowware (Tea Glass Holder / Podstakannik)
Maker
Likely a Japanese export silversmith such as Asahi or a Meiji-era artisan workshop. These pieces were frequently produced in Yokohama or Tokyo for the Western market, specifically catering to Russian and European tea-drinking traditions.
Material
Low-grade silver or Silver-plated base metal (Nickel Silver/EPNS). The yellowish tint and pitting suggest it is likely a 950 Japanese silver with heavy tarnish or, more probably, a plated white metal (Nickel Silver). The liner is cobalt blue glass.
Dimensions
Estimated Height: 10-12 cm (4-5 inches); Diameter: 7 cm. Weight is primarily in the glass liner; the metal holder likely weighs approximately 80-120 grams.
Description
This striking tea glass holder is a classic example of Japanese metalwork intended for the Western market. It features a rich cobalt blue glass liner encased in an intricate silver-toned sleeve. The decorative program is a masterclass in Eastern iconography, depicting a powerful dragon swirling above a serene landscape containing a pagoda and a bridge. This form, known to Russians as a 'podstakannik', was adapted by Japanese makers to appeal to international travelers who frequented the ports of Yokohama and Kobe during the early 1900s.
Key Features
Deep cobalt blue glass contrast; pierced-work pagoda and dragon motifs; distinctive 'naturalistic' cast handle; flared footed base.
Material & Composition
Low-grade silver or Silver-plated base metal (Nickel Silver/EPNS). The yellowish tint and pitting suggest it is likely a 950 Japanese silver with heavy tarnish or, more probably, a plated white metal (Nickel Silver). The liner is cobalt blue glass.
Finish & Decoration
Pierced openwork (ajouré) with repoussé and chased details. The design features a high-relief dragon, a multi-tiered pagoda, and a traditional arched bridge. The finish shows heavy oxidation and a matte, aged patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the image, but typically found on the bottom of the base or the edge of the handle. Expected marks would be 'Sterling', '950', or a Japanese character mark (Jungin/Pure Silver) if solid silver.
Construction Details
Cast frame with hand-chased details then joined to a spun circular base. The handle is cast separately and soldered to the frame. The internal glass liner is blown and fitted into the metal sleeve.
Functional Features
Pierced metal sleeve designed to hold a hot glass of tea without burning the hand; flared base for stability; cobalt glass liner for liquid containment.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast metal handle with an ergonomic, organic 'thall' or 'branch' shape, typical of Japanese Meiji-period export ware. It is soldered at two points to the main body.
Craftsmanship Details
Moderate quality commercial export ware. The chasing is somewhat soft, suggesting a production-line piece rather than a one-of-a-kind masterwork, but the piercing work remains elegant and well-composed.
Authentication Indicators
The style of the dragon casting is highly consistent with Japanese Meiji-era metalwork. The wear pattern (yellowish metal showing through) suggests this specific piece may be silver plate or a lower-grade silver alloy rather than high-purity sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Japan, likely Yokohama. Manufactured during a period where Japan was the premier producer of decorative silver for the international tourist and export market.
Era & Period
Meiji Period to early Taisho Era (Late 19th to early 20th Century). This style is representative of the Export Silver movement that merged Japanese craftsmanship with Western forms.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1925. The combination of Chinoiserie elements and the specific handle casting is indicative of this high-export period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Japonisme' movement where Westerners collected Eastern-made functional objects. It reflects the global trade routes of the early 20th century and the adaptation of local crafts to foreign customs (tea glass usage).
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant surface pitting and loss of finish on the metal, suggesting it may be silver plate over brass or nickel. The metal frame is slightly distorted at the base. The glass liner appears intact without major chips.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. While the price tag in the photo says $20, these are often sold in antique markets for more depending on the silver content. If confirmed as solid 950 silver, value would rise to $150+.
Care & Maintenance
Clean the glass separately with warm soapy water. Use a very mild silver cream (like Wright's) on the metal, but avoid heavy scrubbing if it is plated, as the thin silver layer could be removed entirely. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Russian Imperial niello podstakanniks (more formal, usually silver/enamel); WMF (Germany) Art Nouveau glass holders (usually floral/geometric); Tiffany & Co. pierced silver liners.
Interesting Facts
While the 'podstakannik' is a quintessentially Russian object, Japanese workshops became world-renowned for producing them because their artisans were masters of the intricate piercing and chasing required for the design.