Precious tableware of Old Rus
Drinking pipkin: stavets

Among various vessels of Russian tableware one can find an outstanding utensil of unusual form called stavets. It is a small cylindrical bowl with a lid, purpose of which is not determined yet. It is known that fluid diet, i.e. soup, compote, was served in them. These vessels were widely used in monasteries. At the court they were executed of gold and were used for desserts.

Stavets was a personal utensil, which was affirmed by engraved inscriptions on it. The stavets of Peter the Great is decorated with such an inscription as well as specific engraved ornament and niello.