Russian Matryoshka Nesting Doll Set

This is a hand-painted seven-piece wooden Matryoshka nesting doll set, featuring a coordinated theme across each descending scale. The dolls are constructed from carved linden or birch wood and finished with a glossy lacquer. Each figure depicts a stylized woman with large blue eyes, blonde hair, and a white and green floral headscarf (platok). The primary body color is a burnt sienna or reddish-brown hue. A distinguishing artistic element is the 'doll-within-a-doll' motif: each figure is painted holding a blue-and-white porcelain-style vessel, resembling Gzhel pottery, which varies from large teapots on the outer dolls to simple teacups on the smaller ones. Notable features include fine white filigree and scrolling gold-toned accents. The craftsmanship indicates a mid-to-late 20th-century Russian folk art style, likely from a specialized workshop given the consistency of the painting across the smaller pieces. Condition-wise, the set appears well-preserved with a high-gloss finish intact, though minor surface abrasions and horizontal seam lines are visible where the pieces pull apart. The smallest doll is diminutive, approximately 1 cm in height, showing remarkable detail for its scale. No visible maker's signature is apparent on the front, though such marks are traditionally located on the base of the largest doll.

Explore similar items and categories: