Dymkovo toy is one of the best examples of Russian folk art of toys made in the city of Dymkovo located in the Kirov region. In Russia, they are also known as Vyatka or Kirov toys.
These clay figures have been made since ancient times. They were part of the local spring fair, which was organized until the beginning of the 20th century on the banks of the Vyatka River.
The first registered mention of this event took place in 1811, but it is believed that toys have existed for about 400 years, so the history of the Dymkovo toy begins at least from the 17th century.
Manufacturing technology and painting of the Dymkovo toy are strictly defined. Dymkovo toys are made of red clay and river sand. Dymkovo toy can be bought here – over time, of course, it has changed, visually everything also conveys the “spirit of the past”. But today the process of making toys is more sophisticated, they are tempered in professional furnaces, and more modern whitewashing is used and high -quality tempera paint is used to add details and color.
From ancient times, toys had their roots in old pagan beliefs. The main manufacturers of toys were women and children who worked seasonally first, and later throughout the year. There are three types of clay toys: balls, whistles and dolls. The first two are of ancient origin and are associated with pagan symbols of fertility.
The main motives of figures: women, children, pets and birds.
Later, small figures lost their magical meaning and turned into toys for children, remaining a wonderful art craft.
Over time, pagan symbols gave way to mainly household topics, began to sculpt figurines and groups that were decorated with window sills and cabinets.
And today toys have a purely decorative meaning, although they are being done now, relying on old traditions. Dymkovo toy can also indicate a certain lifestyle, and can also reflect fairy -tale motifs. The latter were added in the 30s of the last century. Four or more colors, as well as gold gold in some cases, decorate the Dymkovo toys.
Over the years, toys took more complex shapes, with magnificent collars, and sometimes have abstract elements.
Residents of Russia, and especially tourists from other countries often buy a Dymkovo toy as gifts home or as souvenirs. These colorful toys become a cheerful reminder of an exciting journey through Russia and its history.