Semyonov matryoshkas

Semyonov matryoshka is widely recognized as unofficial symbol of Russia.

It appeared in late 1930s in the town of Semyonov, Nizhny Novgorod region. At the beginning it looked like Merinovo matryoshka of neighboring village, but gradually it began to be painted in different manner – bright and cheerful. Each craftmaster introduced new features. Only in 1950s, the recognizable Semyonov style of painting was developed.

Semenov matryoshka is painted with aniline paints, a considerable part of the apron is an unpainted wood. The painting of the apron is distinctive and inimitable. Basically, craftsmen use only three colors – red, blue and yellow. By virtue of creativity and rich imagination of artists, each matryoshka has its own character and figurative expression.

In this section you can see, choose and buy semyonov matryoshkas of the best craftsmen by browsing cards below.