Alexey Lysenko Author and host of the program "Be Your Own Director" Date of Birth: 26.01.1965 Country: Russia

1. The Collector of Clear Glass Mugs
2. The Genesis of a Passion
3. The Hunt for the Perfect Mug
4. From London to Venezuela
5. The Sentimental Three-Liter Mug
6. A Living Collection
7. The Source of Inspiration
8. The Promise

The Collector of Clear Glass Mugs

Television personality Alexey Lysenkov is renowned for his daring pursuits such as skydiving, paragliding, and auto racing. However, behind the scenes, he harbors a lesser-known passion: collecting clear glass mugs.

The Genesis of a Passion

In 1987, while on a trip to Bulgaria, Lysenkov's thirst for beer led him to a charming shop in Sofia where he stumbled upon two captivating mugs: one tall and delicate, the other low and sturdy. Unable to resist, he purchased them and fondly named them "Tolstaya" ("Fat") and "Tonkaya" ("Slim"). Thus, his collection was born.

The Hunt for the Perfect Mug

From that moment forward, Lysenkov sought out mugs on his travels, visiting shops and pubs to quench his thirst for beer and his desire for unique glassware. He established a strict set of criteria for his collection: each mug had to be made of transparent, light-colored glass, feature a handle, and lack a lid.

From London to Venezuela

His collection grew with each new mug. He brought home an authentic pint mug from London, received Japanese glass artistry as a gift in Vladimir, and found a marvel in Venezuela: a mug with double walls that allowed beer to remain undisturbed when upended.

The Sentimental Three-Liter Mug

One particularly memorable mug came from Mexico, a souvenir of his travels with Valdis Pelsh and Maxim Leonidov for the program "Eh, Dorogi!" While sharing many toasts sheltered from the relentless sun, Lysenkov's gaze fell upon an astonishing three-liter mug displayed behind the bar. After persistent pleas, the Turkish proprietor gifted it to Lysenkov as a parting present.

A Living Collection

Lysenkov estimates his collection to number around a hundred, with some on display, others stored away, and still others having met an unfortunate end. He attributes these losses to the fact that his mugs are not mere display pieces but are used regularly.

The Source of Inspiration

In addition to the joy of collecting, Lysenkov's mugs have served as a source of inspiration. Conversations over a pint at home with friends led to the creation of the popular segment "Slabo" on his television program "Sam Sebe Rezhisser."

The Promise

While recent health concerns and family life have tempered the intensity of his gatherings, Lysenkov vows to continue his collection, promising to keep his readers updated on the latest additions to his growing treasure.