Mstera Lacquer Art

The village of Mstera located on banks of Klyazma river in a beautiful scenic spot some 60 miles(100 km) from the old Russian town of Vladimir. More about Mstera lacquer art here

Russian lacquer boxes originated in Russia in the 17th century, these lacquered boxes are a prime example of Russia’s true talent in painting miniature boxes while capturing the finest level of detail. These boxes are typically made of papier-mâché, using oil or tempera paints, painted with brushes having no more than one rabbit hair, and polished many times. The boxes originate from four primary villages: Palekh, Fedoskino, Kholui, and Mstera. Each village is unique and has its own style which is reflected in the Russian miniature art. Russian lacquer boxes are painted by such artists like Kritov, Zotov, Solodilov and many other famous artists. The Russian boxes are considered the prime Russian gifts and souveniers that are famous world-wide. 

I bought these cards from a flee market in Tallinn, Estonia.

L.G. Zuikov. Playing Ping-Pong. Casket 1971

Yu. M. Vavanov. Penny-Farthing, Casket, 1971

L.A. Fomichev. Battle by the Golden Gates. Box, 1966

L.A. Fomichev. Restoration of the Cathedral of the Assumtion in Vladimir. Casket 1960s

Fedoskino Laquer Art here

Fedoskino art

Russian lacquered boxes, miniature painted works of art that developed from icon painting in the 18th century, abound in depictions of folklore, fairy tales, costumes and traditions. There are four distinct styles, represented by four schools of Russian lacquer art, which are named for the villages of their creation, Fedoskino, Palekh, Mystera, and Kholui.

The village of Fedoskino  located not far from Moscow on the banks of the Ucha River, is the oldest of the four art centers of Russian lacquer miniature painting on papier-mâché, which has been practiced there since 1795.

V.D.Antonov

Spinners

Box detail, 1970s

V.D.Antonov

Russian Winter, Casket detail, 1970s 

The theme of troyka (the three horses) riding was very popular in 19th Century's Boxes. A troyka rushing through the snow field and sledge riding is a popular theme that has become an emblem of the Fedoskino craft. 

 The style of Fedoskino painting is largely realistic in composition and detail. 

Yu. V. Karapayev

Song of the North

Box, 1972

 I.I. Strakhov

Autumn

Smal box, 1973