I visited the Tea Museum without a tour; don't repeat my mistake. Thanks to a museum employee, even without a group or a guided tour we learned interesting facts about some of the exhibits.
For example, the samovar descended from a European predecessor, the siphon called a 'gabet', and from an ancient Chinese device. Russian craftsmen thought to attach a spigot to the massive metal structure. Later many elements, fittings and even special furniture were added.
There were many manufacturers; each wanted to make their product not only practical and convenient but also distinctive. There is a huge variety of shapes and sizes — every factory wanted to stand out.
Tours are held on weekends; on weekdays self-guided visits with an audio guide are possible. After the appetizing descriptions of tea ceremonies from different eras you can taste the best tea varieties in the café or choose something for home tasting. I chose the red tea 'Dianhong' and will brew it in a small 'samovar'.
