The meaning of the traditional matryoshka
The matryoshka doll is a classic toy with more than 100 years of tradition in Russia. Its name comes from the word ‘Matryona’, meaning mother of the family and connecting these precious dolls with the idea of family and fertility.
But despite being recognised as one of the icons of the Russian craftsmanship, the matrioshka dolls were not originally created in Russia. As we have already written in our blog, it looks like it originated in Japan. A famous Russian entrepreneur and patron of the arts, returning from a trip to Japan, brought back a series of nested figures representing the seven divinities of fortune. One of his collaborators decided to adapt these figures with a traditional Russian design and the original matryoshka doll was born.
Authentic and original matryoshka
Our matryoshkas are a 100% original Russian product, handmade by craftsmen in the Nizhny Novgorod area. This region still concentrates the semi-artisanal production of 60% of Russian matryoshkas, in particular the towns of Semenov and Polkhov-Maidan.
Traditionally, they are made from lime wood harvested in spring, when these trees begin to secrete sap. As a measure of quality, all the pieces that are part of a matrioshka must be taken from the same piece of wood. The manufacturing process is carried out with great care and skill by the craftsmen, making these matryoshkas an authentic and original gift.
Different models of the traditional matryoshka
The most traditional matryoshka models almost always have a flower design and bright colours. At Fantastik you can find different models of matryoshkas, from the most classic to a matryoshka made in India, with paintings inspired by Hinduism.
