Description
- Origin | Nesting dolls originated in China during the Song Dynasty. Chinese craftsmen started with nesting boxes, which gradually developed into nesting dolls. The concept found its way from China to Japan, where the nesting dolls represented the seven gods of fortune. It was not until the 19th century that they entered Europe via merchants from the East. The dolls were welcomed in Europe with open arms and have since become a symbol of folk art and tradition.
- Craftsmanship: The modern matryoshka dolls are still made entirely by hand, and over 80% of dolls worldwide come from a single factory in the city of Semyonov. They are made only from high quality basswood which is lightweight, strong and flexible. The empty dolls are first turned by a master craftsman, then stacked and primed with potato paste for several days. Finally, they are hand painted by master painters.
- European tradition: since the nesting dolls have found their way to Europe, they embody values and traditions that are more rooted in Slavic culture than in their Chinese origins. Some of these values are: respect for the elders, unity of family, fertility, the search for the truth and the meaning of life. The outermost doll depicts the mother, and all others in her are her children, with the innermost doll depicting a baby.
- Variations: The Semyonov Matryoshka dolls are traditional nesting dolls. Red and yellow, with floral patterns, rosy cheeks and a smile frozen in time. But with new generations, tradition gives way to new ideas and desires. Matryoshka dolls come in a variety of shapes and sizes today, with different color schemes and themes. From traditional to animal motifs to political satire - you can even buy them blank and paint them yourself!
- 🎀 TRADITIONAL GIFT | Despite all the new variants, the Matryoshka dolls are ultimately rooted in the tradition and are still given as such. These beautiful handmade dolls have their meaning in motherhood, family, fertility and wealth. Giving one of these beautiful doll sets is not only a gift that simply serves to decorate your room, but a gift of love, care and heart.
Owl | This set of matryoshka moves away from its traditional origins. The set is painted to represent a family of owls. The colours are white, grey and black with yellow accents. It makes a wonderful gift for anyone who likes to deviate from tradition while remaining respectful. These animal variants are also great toys/gifts for children and great decorations for all animal lovers
