Be Russian – Buy Russian! Prepared by Darya Molchanova, Form 7.

I am proud of being Russian. We have our own history, language, culture. A great number of masterpieces of Russian handicraft attracts attention of people not only of our country but also foreigners. I would like to tell you about some of them.

It's difficult to find a symbol of Russia more popular than the traditional Russian matryoshka. The matryoshka doll - the wooden decorated toy "with a secret" - is known even in the countries most distant from Russia. Tourists from Europe and the USA bring matryoshka dolls back home; the lovers of exotics collect matryoshkas in Australia and South Africa; the simplicity and originality of matryoshka dolls attract the fans of Russian folk art. Bright and picturesque matryoshka dolls decorate the fireplaces and bookshelves in the homes of thousands of Russians

History of Gzhel crafts has more than six and a half centuries. The origin of the word «Gzhel» caused a lot of controversy among scientists. The most well-known researchers trace it to the verb «to burn» («bake the clay»). Gzhelsky farmers for centuries burned pottery, toys, tiles. According to archeological excavations, Gzhel ceramics has arisen not later than the XV century, and in the written sources of the village of Gzhel is mentioned already in the times of Ivan Kalita.

Khokhloma – an old Russian folk craft, which emerged in the 17th century on the banks of the Volga river is perhaps the best-known image of Russian art. It is a decorative painting on wooden Cutlery, utensils and furniture. Red and black (sometimes green) tones and gold against the Golden background are very attractive and original. Surprisingly, while painting wood items, only gold colour is used. Silver is forbidden.

Thank you for your attention!