Traditional Russian Folk Art

Traditional folk art is now exhibited in museums across Russia.

Traditional folk art has always played an intrinsic part of domestic culture across Russia and represents the rooted artistic perceptions, traditions and practices of the citizens. The creative improvisation and stylistic peculiarities of Russian folk art make pieces recognizable and often represent the spiritual connection between peasants and their surroundings. The subject matter often encompasses the values and traditions held by the multinational population as well as the beautiful, vast landscape.

Matryoshka Dolls

One of the most recognizable symbols of Russian culture is the Matryoshka, a set of nesting or "babushka" dolls, which were invented by a Russian artist more than 100 years ago. These dolls that fit inside one another are now made by artisans all over Russia, and they often tell a story about the country's history, culture and customs.

Wood Carvings

Boxes, toys and useful household items have been elegantly carved from the abundant birch and pine trees across Russia's landscape for hundreds of years. Everyday items such as containers and tools were carved to resemble common animals or objects found in the artisan's surroundings. By the 19th century, painting was combined with pyrography, a decorative element produced by burning wood carvings, by traditional Russian artisans to create vivid images.

Khokhloma

Khokhloma originated more than 300 years ago in an old village located in the Volga forest region. Pronounced "hawch-low-ma," the colorful and exotic woodenware was bought and sold by artisans at the annual trade fairs in Nizhni-Novgorod. The pieces are made to be both beautiful and functional, being tolerant of heat, cold and other wear. The secrets of creating the coveted Khokhloma pieces have been heavily guarded and passed down through the generations.

Lacquerwar

The art of painting miniature lacquer images on boxes originated almost 400 years ago in four towns north of Moscow: Fedoskino, Palekh, Kholui and Mstera. Paper mache boxes are the preferred medium, as the end product is lighter than wood or plastic and it stands up to the elements very well. Subject matter for lacquered boxes and other pieces typically depict folk tales, local heroes and historical scenes.

Korov Clay Figures

Small and picturesque, Korov was founded in western Russian in 1778. The clay whistles and figurines produced by artisans in this town have been coveted for their beautiful example of Russian folk art. Clay figurines and instruments are often playfully painted and depict whimsical themes, and they serve as excellent examples of traditional Russian folk art.

References

• The St. Petersburger: Russian Folk Art
• The World of Russian Folk Art: Russian Folk Art
• Russian Lacquer Box Guide: The Story of Russian Lacquer Boxes