Matreshka painting master class

Matryoshka is a Russian wooden toy in the form of a painted doll.  There are a number of similar smaller dolls inside. Matryoshka represents motherhood.

It is believed that the Russian wooden painted doll appeared in the 1890s, when the rapid economic and cultural development of the country was accompanied by an upsurge in national identity and interest in Russian culture. During that period, an artistic trend known as the «Russian style» arose in the Russian Empire. Its followers, in particular, were engaged in the revival and development of the traditions of the folk peasant toy. There was a workshop «Children’s Education» in Moscow. Its  artists first created dolls, whose outfits demonstrated festive women’s clothes of various Russian provinces. This is where the idea of ​ ​creating a Russian wooden doll was born.

The first eight piece Matreshka doll was made in 1890 by V.P. Zvezdochkin and S.V. Malyutin.

It was called Matryona ( an old Russian girl’s name, which later was converted into generic “Matreshka”). It was a round-faced peasant girl in an embroidered shirt, sundress and apron, covered with a colorful scarf and holding a black rooster.

Guided by a professional artist you will create your own traditional Russian souvenir.

Duration of the master-class is 40 min.