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Published: June 22nd 2017
Matryoshka Nesting Dolls
The first Russian nested doll set was made in 1890 by Vasily Zvyozdochkin from a design by Sergey Malyutin, who was a folk crafts painter at Abramtsevo. Traditionally the outer layer is a woman, dressed in a sarafan, a long and shapeless traditional Russian peasant jumper dress. The figures inside may be of either gender; the smallest, innermost doll is typically a baby turned from a single piece of wood. Much of the artistry is in the painting of each doll, which can be very elaborate. The dolls often follow a theme; the themes may vary, from fairy tale characters to Soviet leaders. Matryoshka dolls are often referred to as "babushka dolls", babushka meaning "grandmother" or "elderly woman".Geo: 57.0492, 9.92666
Today we pulled into a city founded by Vikings in the late 900s, historic Aalborg, the best-preserved Renaissance architecture in all of Denmark. This is the fourth largest city in Denmark, founded as a trading post. The wealth that poured into merchants accounts helped build many half-timbered mansions that still stand today.
This morning I attended a lecture by Resident Expert, Alexander Fyrk on the Matryoshka Nesting Dolls and how they became a Russian cultural icon. It was very interesting. The idea first originated in Japan and then was brought to Russia and became much more artistic and intricate. The ships gift shop has some beautiful sets. They are hand carved from Lemon wood and each one is hand painted. It can take an artist up to two years to paint a set. The sets can be from 3 pieces to 62 or more. I have posted some pictures of a few of the sets on the ship and also the history.
This afternoon we had a walking tour of Aalborg with Heidi, our best guide yet. She actually lives and studies here. Education is free in a few of the countries we have visited; so, young people take advantage of
Matryoshka Nesting Dolls
A matryoshka doll (Russian: матрёшка; IPA: [mɐˈtrʲɵʂkə], matrëška), also known as a Russian nesting doll, or Russian doll, is a set of wooden dolls of decreasing size placed one inside another. The name "matryoshka" (матрёшка), literally "little matron", is a diminutive form of Russian female first name "Matryona" (Матрёна) or "Matriosha". this and are eager to get an education. They usually speak several languages and work part time to earn money to pay living expenses. She was a very enthusiastic guide and really knew a lot of history regarding Denmark and especially Aalborg. Please check out the pictures for more details on this walk.
This evening we set sail for Copenhagen, Denmark.
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LaWann
non-member comment
Now that's funny primarily because I so identify!!! We are so much alike in so many ways Diane and I'm so thankful to have your friendship.