Washington Winter Show 2022

44 Russian Imperial art collection includes a variety of objects from di erent regions that represent Russian culture from the late seventeenth century to the early Soviet period. Post’s strong interest in Russian decorative arts included objects made over the centuries by artisans who had perfected the ancient techniques of silversmithing and niello . The silver trompe l’oeil woven basket with a damask folded napkin exemplifies such mastery (fig. 5). The vodka set is a superb example of the decorative possibilities of niello, a black alloy of silver, copper, lead, and sulfur used as an inlay on engraved metal surfaces (fig. 6). The traditional consumption of vodka in Russia inspired shapes and motifs of bottles and silver charkas. The charka, a porringer-shaped uniquely Russian drinking vessel with a handle, is used for toasting and drinking strong beverages. The glass set with enameled monsters also features Russian proverbs about the evils of drinking, including “Hello little glasses, how have you been? Have you been waiting for me? Drink, Fig. 7: Vodka set. Maltsov Glassworks (Russian, 1756–present). Elizaveta Merkurevna Bëm (Boehm), designer (Russian, 1843–1914). Diatkovo, Russia, 1897. Glass, enamel. Museum purchase, 1997 (23.497.1–4). Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, photographed by Bruce M. White.