Two-handled tcharka (wine-tasting cup), engraved with floral ornament
Moscow, late 17th century
Kremlin workshops
Craftsman — Peter Ivanov (mentioned before 1700)
Silver, gilt, niello, engraving, casting
4,4x13,8x5,0 cm
State Historical Museum, Moscow

Tcharka is a typical sample of Russian vessels for tasting strong drinks, for example, vodka. The decoration of this tcharka harmonizes West-European influence (a sophisticated form of handles and foot in the form of bird's paws grasping the ball) and Oriental influence (gilt ornament of pinks on a niello background) in Russian jewellery of the late17th century.