Russian nesting dolls, also known as matryoshka dolls, nesting dolls, babushka dolls, or just Russian dolls, are probably the coolest wooden toys to have ever left the workshop.
If you’re a kid that’s ever messed around with a set of nesting dolls, then you know we speak the truth. Ever since Vasily Zvyozdochkin carved the first pair of rounded figures way back in 1890, the toy industry has never been quite the same. But much to the disappointment of many children, these “toys” are usually displayed on a look, but do not touch basis. Many sets of Russian nesting dolls are hand crafted, expertly painted, and relatively fragile. In fact, quality sets usually go for thousands of dollars. Collectible sets can cost even more.
Aside from their fascinating stackable nature, Russian nesting dolls are admired for their colorful artwork and mysterious nature. Opening each doll is like a mini Christmas, you never know what surprises lay inside. Whether you’re male or female, young or old, this list is the ultimate guide to Russian nesting doll tattoos. Enjoy!
This dotwork design.
This dangling design.
This wrist tat.
These mother and daughter Russian nesting doll tattoo.
The history of Russian nesting dolls.
Many scholars argue that the Russian nesting doll was in fact originally created by the Japanese. However, these claims have been widely debunked by people that claim the nesting doll was inspired from hollow wooden eggs that Russian woodcarvers would assemble long before the first Japanese dolls materialized.
The first Matryoshka dolls found a somewhat unexpected audience. Although the dolls were originally created with children in mind, their expensive production costs soon put them out of reach for all but the wealthy. So instead, adults started to collect them which is probably why so many sets survived to this day.
Matryoshka dolls owe their global popularity to the Paris World Exhibition in 1900 where the dolls scored a bronze medal. Soon after the exhibition, large orders flooded in from all over the world, forever cementing the nesting doll’s place in history.
This black and grey ink doll.
These matching Russian nesting doll tattoos.
Fun facts about Russian nesting dolls.
- Because of their time consuming production methods, authentic Russian nesting dolls are not mass produced anywhere in the world.
- Matryoshka means “little mother,” and the dolls inside represent her children.
- The Chinese city of Manzhouli is home to the largest (height wise) matryoshka dolls. In the towns square there are over 200 of the dolls, some reaching heights of over 100ft.
- The largest set of matryoshka dolls is 27.5 inches tall and boasts a whopping 70 inner dolls.
- Matryoshka dolls are one of Russians most popular tourist purchases representing the country.
This matryoshka doll tattoo.
This mandala inspired doll.
This psychedelic design.
This tricep tat.
This gradient color.
Another dotwork doll.
This gorgeous floral design.
(Photo: 82 Grad)
These rosy cheeks.
These three sisters.
This colorful creation.
This heavy blackwork design.
This tropical matryoshka doll.
This elegant floral design.
These pastel colors.
This black and grey ink dotwork design.
This cute couple.
This simple design.
This Day of the Dead doll.
This winker.
This hidden skull.
This abstract heart design.
This dotwork doll.
This minimalistic design.
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