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Kirov, Nolinsk, Vyatka (Viatka)

Collectible Russian Matryoshka Dolls

Genuine Kirov/Vyatka dolls are the foundation of any Matryoshka collection. Get them while you can.

(Read about them here)

 

  • Kirov Purple Matryoshka, 8nest [1979]. Scarce color arrangement of an 8pc Kirov doll, circa 1977. This matryoshka set was made nearly 50 years ago, some 20 years after the formation of the production center itself. Any nesting dolls from the last quarter of the 20th century are somewhat scarce in about fine, unplayed with condition. Of note here is the continuation of the color purple dresses of the first three pieces, and one more near the end. The lines are sharp, as are the features, on the first four pieces, and the expressions are somber. The flowers, dots and swirls are numerous. The pieces all fit well. There is some age-related wear at the opening, but this can be color touched, if desired (we haven't). This is a highly collectible, 49 year-old set in about fine condition. 5⅝" down to tiny. The label reads (in part): Производственное объединение "Вятка" по выпуску игрушек г. Киров (Production association "Vyatka" for the production of toys, city of Kirov), plus a state mandated price, an article number and the export date (Oct 1983).  It's not easy to find information on how the Russian toy, specifically the Matryoshka doll, came to be the number one tourist and export item of the USSR era. The Russian, aka Soviet, toy production began courting the tourist trade in earnest sometime in the 1960s, when it encouraged small collectives and factories to produce souvenirs to be sold to non-Russians. It started slowly, but eventually built up speed as the Moscow 1980s Olympics was slated to welcome foreign, specifically from Europe and the West (aka USA), tourists. Interest in Russian handicrafts was also stoked by importers of said goods in the US and elsewhere.

    Kirov Purple Matryoshka, 8nest [1977]

    Kirov Purple Matryoshka, 8nest [1979]. Scarce color arrangement of an 8pc Kirov doll, circa 1977. This matryoshka set was made nearly 50 years ago, some 20 years after the formation of the production center itself. Any nesting dolls from the last quarter...
    $75.00
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  • Vintage Mini Matryoshka. The hand-painted flowers on this doll have some wonderful patterns in traditional colors of red, green and yellow. Made in the Kirov Factory in the late 1980s. 3 nested,  3". USSR label.

    Viatka Mini 3 nest [Vintage]

    Vintage Mini Matryoshka. The hand-painted flowers on this doll have some wonderful patterns in traditional colors of red, green and yellow. Made in the Kirov Factory in the late 1980s. 3 nested,  3". USSR label. Brand new condition. Read about the...
    $8.95
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