kalchugino metal works ussr coat of arms classic russian tea glass holder/russian podstakannik for hot or cold liquids kalchugino metal works glass holders were invented at the end of the xviii century. the main reason for their creation was the etiquette, which allowed women, but not men, to drink tea out of porcelain cups. men had to use glasses, which got hot very quickly, making it difficult to drink tea. the men's troubles were finally over, when one very creative mind finally invented the glass holder, which later became a staple at every train car table.