December 2010, Issue 11
Dollhouse Tourism, Russia
Page 80
After the Soviet Regime in Russia, there was a dramatic drop in the demand for toys. Much needed raw materials were being used for things other than nesting
dolls and lacquer boxes. Adding to the decline were the mass-produced metal toys and factory-produced goods that were being marketed. The fine
craftsmanship that distinguished early Russian handicrafts was no longer valued as much. One renown toy craftsman, Luka Kotikov, staged his own funeral to demonstrate his displeasure with the state toy trade, decrying that "I have nothing to live for if toys are no longer needed." The comical monument on his grave was a toy windmill, with pictures and characters taken from children's fairy tales.
Although pushed to the brink of extinction, the handmade crafts trade never completely died, and between 1917 and the early 1980's the hand ade toy industry slowly began to rebound.
Today, Russian culture sustains age-old folk crafts and modern art trends. Craftsmen are manufacturing folktoys in traditional styles and materials, while the best custom-made toys are regarded as masterpieces of modern art. The interest of wealthy patrons of the arts continues to energize the Russian craftsmen and the great traditions of lacquered boxes and ornate nesting dolls once again thrives.
There is also a vast community of miniature artisans producing miniature 38mm (1½") figures, soldiers and animals that rival their European and Western contemporaries. Change within Russia, both political and economic, has given the crafts community a foothold for years to come due to the exporting of these miniature works of art, making them available to collectors throughout the world.
Custom Dolls, Houses & Miniatures / CDHM