This striking vintage lidded canister is a classic example of Soviet-era Khokhloma (Хохлома) folk art. Hand-turned from wood and beautifully hand-painted, it features the iconic, vibrant red, yellow, and gold floral and berry motifs set against a rich black background, complete with a traditional gold-lacquered interior. The base retains its original paper export label reading "MADE IN USSR", providing fantastic historical provenance for collectors of twentieth-century design.
Dating back to the 17th century in the Nizhny Novgorod region, Khokhloma lacquerware is famous for its unique, multi-layered firing process. Artisans applied a special tin powder (and later aluminum) beneath a kiln-fired oil varnish to create a brilliant, metallic gold shimmer without using any actual gold metal. This durable technique was originally designed to make everyday wooden tableware robust enough for practical use while maintaining a luxurious appearance. This mid-to-late 20th-century piece beautifully carries on that centuries-old handicraft heritage.
Dimensions
Height: 20cm
Diameter: 12cm
Condition
Condition: Very good