Russian Khokhloma Baskets
Gold painted Russian Khokhloma Baskets look like they were applied with real gold. That was entirely the thought behind this handicraft, to make inexpensive, light wooden tableware or furniture look like they were made out of a precious metal. The first ever mention of this beautiful craft was way back in 1659, invented by a painter who was an ‘Old Believer’. And a believer he was to have created something so unique!
When the painter learned that he was going to be abducted by some evil men who did not approve of his religious faith, the thing he first wanted to protect was his art of Khokhloma, which he did by teaching his secrets to all the members of his village. Legend says that even nature mourned the loss of this honest worker in a blazing red fire by sprinkling golden dust against the black night sky and hence, no one could ever forget the colors associated with Khokhloma. Deeply moving!
One wouldn’t ponder upon whether or not this legend is true as these baskets are so useful! They can be used to serve specialties on a family feast day or to serve fruits at the end of the meal. What will attract curiosity is the blast of fresh red berries, curls of golden leaves, a pattern of pretty birds or fish with golden scales and some wild brushstrokes like exotic snakes. Our Khokhloma Baskets make beautiful, everlasting gifts for everybody to admire and enjoy! Pick up one of our authentic Russian Khokhloma baskets to artistically enhance your home, and grab another for the next housewarming party!
Unlike the saying ‘all good things come to an end very soon’, this good thing is everlasting! It will last through the most dreadful climates without the wood ever warping or the paint ever cracking. It is also resistant to the acids in the food and one could even store baby food in it in peace. What makes it so permanent is its production technique. Articles carved out of wood are primed with clay, linseed oil and aluminium powder to be fired in the kiln repeatedly at a high temperature. The glistening gold color is the transformation of aluminium powder subject to an extreme temperature. These pieces are then painted and varnished with food safe materials.
One could also add them in their antique collection and brag about its rich culture. Casually mention that an entire museum is dedicated to Khokhloma Art, located in the open factory of Semyonov that has been ever since 1972. The Russian Khokhloma Baskets are certainly must-have additions to your collection.
See all of our authentic Russian Khokhloma products.
