How did they originate?  

Many people think that the origin and history of Russian Nested Dolls is shrouded in the mists of ancient antiquity; however the first dolls as we now know them were created as recently as 1890 after a Japanese trade exhibition in Moscow.The first Russian nested dolls were quite expensive. They were the creation of a professional artist, Sergey Malyutin, and manufactured in Moscow as works of folk art. After the World Fair in Paris in 1900 the whole world wanted them.  Production was moved to Sergiyev Posad, an old monastery town near Moscow and soon everyone there was busy carving or painting what were now known as Matryoshka dolls. To meet the growing demand, other towns around Moscow also started producing the popular wooden dolls.

What do they look like ?

The classic Russian nesting doll is that of a rosy cheeked peasant woman in traditional Russian dress with a headscarf and apron (see images). She has big black eyes, a friendly smile and holds flowers in her hands and a basket of fruit or bread under her arm. Although this is the most recognizable design there have been many different characters and themes of Russian Nested Dolls over the years and different regional styles; politicians, celebrities, animals, historical figures and many others have proved popular additions to the genre and kept it topical.

How are they made?  

Most Matryoshkas consist of five dolls. But there are also some consisting of three, seven, ten or fifteen pieces. The biggest Matryoshka family has 72 members.Today most Russian nested dolls are still hand-made. Why not find out how to make your own matryoshka doll?. Even if woodwork wasn’t your best subject at school you can always buy unpainted wooden dolls and paint your own characters on them. You could get the whole family involved!  You could make a set of dolls of your own family or your favorite celebrities.

What's happening today ?  

At the present time only 15 to 20 artists produce the best quality matryoshka dolls. These artists are the same artists that are involved in the renaissance of icon painting since the rebirth of religion in the countries of the former Soviet Union. Like their paintings each set of dolls is a unique masterpiece that commands a high price, sometimes as much as $2000. Matryoshka dolls are well-established as an icon of Russian culture. Only the future will decide if the availability of suitably gifted Russian artists can meet the global demand for them