Just as Sheffield is known for it's steel, The Full Monty and Hendersons Relish, Russia is known for its Matryoshka (or Babushka) dolls. Beautifully decorated in handpainted Russian Folk Art designs they are often painted as Russian Peasants but may also be painted to depict fairytale characters and people of importance. Despite the variations, one thing is certain, they have become a symbol of Russia, part of their culture and not only a popular item within Russian homes but in the homes of all those who have visited.
Recently welcoming some Russian guests to Sheffield, I was honoured and touched when they gave me a set of Russian dolls. Both sets I own have been given to me by young people who were not aware of my love of Folk Art or my company. I love seeing these on my mantelpiece, not only because of the gorgeous handprinted decoration but because of the colours.
First seen in Russia in the late 1800's, there are a few ideas regarding how they first came to be. It is thought that they were inspired by the nesting boxes of China and Japan. In Japan, nesting dolls were loved by many and consisted of 7 dolls, the largest made in the image of Fukurojuro, the Japanese god of happiness which opened to reveal 6 other lucky gods.
Wanting to find a way to preserve Russian culture, Savva Mamontov opened a workshop with the sole purpose of creating childrens dolls to help illustrate different aspects of their culture. Part of the workshop group, Sergei Maliutin was inspired by the Japanese dolls. Pairing up with Vasiliy Zvyozdochkin, a wood turner, Maliutin began designing the decoration.
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| The very first set of Matryoshka Dolls created by Maliutin and Zvozdochkin Right from the beginning, the dolls were made to depict peasant women. Dressed in womens clothing, you will most likely see them with Babushkas or kerchiefs around their heads. They have certainly become a symbol of family, of Motherhood and the strong female role within Russian culture often being referred to as Matryoshka (meaning little matron) dolls or Babushka (meaning Grandma) dolls. When we looked into the history of these dolls a bit further, we loved hearing that traditionally, making these sets would be a family affair. Beginning with the smallest doll, made out of a single piece of wood, the others would be carved or turned out of two pieces before being decorated by the whole family. They were traditionally painted to depict everyday life and so many were seen (much like the original set) holding items such as bread or flowers. Since then, their decoration has developed. Seen as a great educational tool and toy suitable for story telling, you can find dolls decorated to depict fairy tales and stories, animals or important figures in history. However, we have to admit that our favourite is still the more traditional design.  When we were designing our very own Matryoshka Doll to paint, we just had to include a babushka headscarf and apron. I liked the Russian Dolls before I even owned a set of my own but being presented with sets as gifts from young women made it clear just how successful Mamontov, Maliutin and Zvyozdochkin were in their vision to create something that would become an symbol of Russian culture. It is true that they hold a certain charm and beauty that communicates the importance of family, friendship and love and that message seems to have endeared itself to the hearts of many, in Russia and beyond. I know I will certainly treasure my own sets for many years to come. Happy Folking, Love Carol x |
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