Yes, that
is a Samovar.
The tea is brewed as an extra strong essence, and kept hot in a porcelain pot precariously perched on the pinnacle of the chimney.
A wood/charcoal fire is built in the base of the thing, and heats water.
The host/ess pours a splash of tea essence into a cup, and then adds hot water from the tap.
Russian Tea!
(Our second housekeeper/cook was a Russian emigree, and she had us over once for Samovar!)
Lawrence/Maytagbear