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SOUVENIRS
Nesting Dolls
Birch Boxes
Ceramics
Lacquer Boxes
Main > Souvenirs > Lacquer Boxes
Lacquer Boxes
The first lacquer boxes appeared in Japan and China. Starting from the 16th century, the art of making such boxes spread in Western Europe. First Russian lacquer boxes appeared at the beginning of the 18th century. They were different from oriental ones. The technique of making Russian lacquer boxes was very difficult and laborious: it demanded certain skills and high professionalism of craftsmen. First lacquer boxes were very expensive: only members of Royal family and the richest representatives of nobility could afford them.
Mstera

The art of lacquer painting in the village of Mstera in the Vladimir region originated from the traditions of icon painting in the 17th century. But the artists found their own new way in the creation of distinctive art in miniature. Mstera miniature has a subtle color scheme. Characteristic pale tones on a typically ivory-colored background are the main features of Mstera painting. Blue, silver, yellow and red paints prevail in Mstera color spectrum. Mstera imagery is often drawn from songs, legends, and Russian fairy tales.

Laquer box
Moscow Kremlin
Author: Demidov V.
Laquer box
Moscow Kremlin
Author: Demidov V.
Laquer box
Tsar Saltan
Author: Lyudomudrova
Laquer box
Tatyana`s letter
Author: Tikhomirova

Palekh

Employing a palette of strikingly brilliant colors, painters here do not use oil paints but mix tempera pigments with egg yoke, following the tradition of old masters. Graceful lines, multi-figured composition and detailed painting on black background distinguish Palekh style. Each box is polished with transparent lacquer, that's why the surface is smooth. Each item is unique and signed by the artist. The main themes of Palekh lacquer miniature are fairy tales and genre scenes. Creating their masterpieces, the Palekh artists preserve the best stylistic features of old Russian painting. Exquisite hand-painted boxes show the elegant charm of the Russian lacquered miniature.

Laquer box
Firebird
Author: Frodov
Laquer box
Snowmaiden
Author: Terentyeva
Laquer box
Magic Carpet
Author: Demidov
Laquer box
Swan Princess

Fedoskino

Perfect execution, exquisite color schemes, original line and composition are the main features of Fedoskino miniature painting. The decorative element ties the shape in with the painting. The Fedoskino miniature is more art than craft, with a universe of imagery and a variety of genres. Subjects range from folklore and fairy tales to everyday events of simple village life; from beautiful Russian landscapes and distinctive architecture to the rich history of Russian people. These lacquer boxes are full of expression and decorative beauty.

Laquer box
Rooks have come
Laquer box
With Yoke. Winter
Laquer box
Snowmaiden
Author: Panina
Laquer box
Troyka. Winter
Author: Koldaschov