Traditional Russian Art Appraisal

Hand-Painted Russian Matryoshka Doll (Nested Doll)

This is a single hand-painted Russian Matryoshka doll, likely the outermost doll of a nested set, characterized by its traditional shape and vibrant decorative elements. Made of wood, it features a smooth lacquered finish that gives it a glossy appearance. The doll is predominantly painted in rich, warm colors, including a striking red on the upper body and a deep green and black on the lower section, delineating two distinct pictorial scenes. The 'face' of the doll, located on the upper red section, is intricately painted with blue eyes, red lips, and delicate eyelashes, framed by an elaborate golden head covering or kokoshnik adorned with white dotted patterns and floral motifs, representing fine lace or embroidery. Below the face, a white scalloped pattern with gold outlines suggests a collar or neckline. The central and lower body of the doll depicts a detailed narrative scene, possibly from Russian folklore or a pastoral setting. One figure, possibly male, is shown in motion, playing a long wind instrument (flute/pipe), dressed in a red tunic, brown cloak, and light-colored boots. Another figure, seemingly a woman, is seated on a red bench, dressed in a blue and white garment, with an elaborate headdress, possibly a kokoshnik. Foliage in shades of green and brown fills the background, creating a forest or garden setting. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with fine brushwork evident in the facial features and the intricate details of the clothing and background elements. The base of the doll is a separate, lighter wooden piece with carved or painted decorative banding in a metallic gold or bronze color, suggesting it is designed to be removed to reveal smaller nested dolls inside. While the current image only shows one doll, the nature of matryoshka dolls implies it is part of a larger set. There are no immediately visible condition issues such as chips, cracks, or significant paint loss, and the lacquer appears to be intact, lending a well-preserved appearance. Purchased in Russia in the 1990s, the doll could have been manufactured around that period or be an earlier piece from the late 20th century.