Vtg 1979 Pair of Russian Folk Dymkovo Clay Folk Art Dolls Male Playing Balalaika

Vintage 1979 Pair of Russian Folk Dymkovo Clay Folk Art Dolls Male Playing A Balalaika Female Holding A Duck Original Labels

My family spent the summer in Russia in 1980. We were able to bring home many wonderful Russian pieces and collectibles. Many Russian items were purchased at the Beriozka shops.

The dymka toy is one of the oldest crafts in Russia, born in the land of the Kirov Region, in the village of Dymkovo, more than 400 years ago. To this day, the toy masters safeguard their traditions.

Dymka’s history and manufacture:
Dymka is truly a unique toy because no one replicates the other. Each has its own subject and ornamentation.“Usually, the toy consists of several details. Red clay provides the possibility to ‘glue’ all the details together without external means.

Dymkovo toys, also known as the Vyatka toys or Kirov toys (Дымковская игрушка, вятская игрушка, кировская игрушка in Russian) are moulded painted clay figures of people and animals.