Russian Khokhloma Bowls - Add a Sparkle of Gold to Your Tableware

Khokhloma painting is an ancient wood painting technique that originated in Russia somewhere in the latter half of the 17th century. Its characteristic features include the presence of vivid flower patterns in red and gold colors, on a dark wooden background. The use of Khokhloma painting on tableware such as bowls results in the creation of such bowls that look glamorous and metal like and which emit a golden sheen despite the fact that no gold is used in their manufacturing processes. The name Khokokloma comes from a village or settlement of the same name, where this art form first came into existence.

The very first step involved in the manufacture of Khokhloma bowls is the carving of the bowl design from the wood. The design is then primed with a combination of aluminum, clay mortar and raw linseed oil and the mixture is baked at a high temperature kiln for hardening. Following this step, a floral design is created on the hardened bowl with a brush, which is later painted in red and orange, with a golden hue in the background. Following the resurgence of the Khokhloma art in the Soviet times, Russia today has two dedicated factories near the Khokhloma village, where most of the Khokhlolma tableware including bowls are produced for supply to rest of the world.

The Russian Store offers the best in the range of Khokhloma bowls for your tableware set. We have a range of options and designs for you to choose from. From simple bowls that can be used to keep fruit on the dinner table to Khokhloma bowls that are in unique shapes and which can serve a variety of ornamental and functional purposes, the choice is virtually limitless. A recurring design motif amongst the Khokhloma bowls is the swan bowl design. The graceful, long necked swan is present in various designs of the bowls including one with ladles, one specifically to serve as candy container or others that are simple berry holders.

Besides bowls, the Khokhloma range at the Russian Store also offers cookie jars with lids, honey pots and butter and cheese dishes, amongst others. The bowls can be used in a variety of innovative ways. You can use the broader and bigger of the bowls to serve as a base for floating aromatic candles. The heady aroma of the candle combined with golden hue emitted by the bowl that is further accentuated in the candle light creates an unforgettable romantic atmosphere. Don’t take our word for it. Try it and see for yourself.

Love the Khokhloma look? Check out our Fancy Khokhloma Jewelry Boxes.