Palekh, Fedoskino, Mstiora, Kholui - these names of the old centres of the lacquer miniature are known to millions of Russians. Many families lovingly preserve in their homes elegantly decorated boxes, caskets, panels and other knick-knacks of exquisite craftsmanship. Notable for their bright colours, subtle brushwork and refined drawing, these items, created by gifted folk artists, call to mind the fairytale birds of paradise that have fortuitously flown into modern homes and as if by magic endowed them with a sense of joie de vivre.
Palekh, Fedoskino, Mstiora, Kholui - these names of the old centres of the lacquer miniature are known to millions of Russians. Many families lovingly preserve in their homes elegantly decorated boxes, caskets, panels and other knick-knacks of exquisite craftsmanship. Notable for their bright colours, subtle brushwork and refined drawing, these items, created by gifted folk artists, call to mind the fairytale birds of paradise that have fortuitously flown into modern homes and as if by magic endowed them with a sense of joie de vivre.
