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Russian nesting dolls, also known as Matryoshka dolls, are a traditional Russian folk art and popular souvenir. They are sets of wooden dolls that fit inside one another, with each doll becoming progressively smaller. The largest doll is usually a woman wearing a traditional Russian dress, and the smaller dolls inside may also be women or other characters. The dolls are hand-painted and often depict scenes from Russian culture and folklore. Russian nesting dolls are not only decorative but also have a symbolic meaning, representing family, fertility, and the concept of hidden treasures. They are loved by collectors and tourists alike for their beauty and craftsmanship.
Do you recall the time when you were learning to count? Did you count the clouds in the sky? How about the buttons on your shirt? Did you assign a number to each of your fingers and toes? People acquire the skill of counting in various ways. In the past, Russian children learned to count using Russian nesting dolls, also known as matryoshkas.
You have probably encountered Russian nesting dolls before. They are dolls that are concealed within each other. That’s where the name comes from — each one “nests” inside a larger doll. Most nesting dolls consist of three to twelve dolls. However, some sets are much larger. The largest set in history consisted of 1,800 dolls!
Today, nesting dolls are considered a symbol of Russia. However, they did not originate there. Nesting dolls originated from Asia, where Chinese and Japanese artists began producing them in the 1700s. In 1896, a Japanese artist brought nesting dolls to an art exhibition in Russia. Russian artists drew inspiration from the Japanese nesting dolls and started creating their own versions.
Nesting dolls quickly gained popularity throughout Russia. At that time, toys that facilitated children’s learning were in high demand. Many parents purchased nesting dolls to assist their children in learning to count. They also helped teach children about changes in size and shape. In no time, nesting dolls became a fundamental part of Russian culture.
In a set of Russian nesting dolls, all the pieces are similar in appearance, but they are not always identical. Certain aspects of the dolls change, such as facial expressions, clothing, and activities. For instance, you might open one doll with a smiling expression only to find the next one with a frowning expression. A doll adorned with orchids on her dress might contain another doll with lilies. The largest doll, also known as the “mother” doll, may be holding a broom while the smallest doll holds a bottle. Sometimes, these changes hold deeper meanings. For example, flowers on nesting dolls often represent different regions of Russia. Other times, the changes are purely artistic choices.
Russian nesting dolls have evolved over time. Traditionally, they resembled women wearing aprons and bonnets. Today’s nesting dolls come in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes they resemble pets or characters from movies or TV shows. Others resemble politicians. One popular set of dolls begins with Russia’s current president, Vladimir Putin. As you open each doll, it takes you back in time through the country’s leaders. Imagine starting with Donald Trump and opening doll after doll until you end up with George Washington!
Today, nesting dolls are seen in popular culture. They are common symbols in books, movies, and TV shows. They have even influenced video games. A popular game called “Stacking” challenges players to solve difficult puzzles as nesting dolls. Starting as the smallest doll, the player stacks into larger dolls while facing off against the game’s villain. Can you complete the set? It’s more challenging than it seems!
Creating custom nesting dolls can be a lot of fun! How would you like a set of nesting dolls that resemble your family members? How about your pets? Maybe you could make a set that resembles your classmates! The possibilities are endless.
Give It a Try
Before attempting these activities, find a friend or family member to participate with you.
Looking to see some Russian nesting dolls in person? Take a look at these examples! Which one is your favorite? Share it with a friend or family member and explain why you like it.
Russian nesting dolls are often passed down through generations and become family heirlooms. Ask a friend or family member if they have any heirlooms they could share with you. Ask questions to learn more about what they share.
Dolls are often the subjects of stories around the world. Read the story “The Unwanted Doll” to find out its lesson. Write a paragraph explaining what the story teaches readers and how you know.
Interesting Sources
- http://www.historyofdolls.com/doll-history/history-of-matryoshka / (accessed 05 Mar., 2019)
- https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/modern-europe/russian-soviet-and-cis-history/matryoshka-doll (accessed 05 Mar., 2019)
- https://www.insidenestingdolls.com/russian-nesting-dolls-history/ (accessed 05 Mar., 2019)
- https://www.macalester.edu/russian/about/resources/miscellany/matryoshka/ (accessed 05 Mar., 2019)
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