The bear motif of this figural bottle is deeply rooted in Russian tradition, and this bottle served as much more than just a vessel for vodka. Crafted to grace the tables of the aristocracy, figural bottles symbolised national pride and social sophistication.
High-quality figural bottles like this were often used for significant and formal occasions, such as an official marriage proposal to the bride's family, adding weight and status to the proposal. The bottle served not just as a gift, but as a symbol of the suitor's seriousness and ability to provide. I wonder if she said "yes"...
Bear-shaped bottles were produced between 1880 and 1900, meaning that this specific piece is at least 125 years old. Iconic Russian vodka producers such as Smirnov, Shtirer, and Shustov & Sons are known to have used bottles like this, with the central medallion on the bear's chest designed to hold a distinguishing paper label.
