Khokhloma Spoons
The artisans in Khokholma in the Volga region of Russia have a long tradition of creating striking lacquer ware, with red and black designs on wooden utensils. The “gold” basecoat is not real gold but the ingenious invention of the Russian craftsmen. To achieve the gold effect on the wood is not an easy task. First, the unpainted articles are primed and coated with a drying oil. Next the pieces are polished with powered aluminium (powered tin was used in the past). The “silvered” wares are then painted with heat-resistant oil colors, varnished and fired in kilns. The heat turns the varnish yellow, the aluminium into “gold” and mellows the design with an even golden tone. Primarily decorative objects the motifs of Khokholma paintings are simple, consisting of floral and geometrical patterns. This wonderful Russian decorated craft dates back to the 17th century. Modern Khokhloma factories contain laboratories where artists can work on extending the range of their popular products such as folding nursery tables, vases, decorative panels, and other items. Today Khokhloma pieces are refined and have a richer and more sophisticated coloring. Artists have mastered every technique to create varied designs in vibrant colors giving every piece of Khokhloma its unique elegance.
Tags: Khokhloma, Lacquered Items