Russian House as a Scary Story

The other side of perceiving the Russian House is recalling something not so magical as Teremok, but rather scary. Some of my friends (so I am) remember a bit about not so bright part of Soviet history, meaning not culture but everyday life and problems. For example, how hard it was to get any ordinary objects such as furniture and how ugly and uncomfortable these objects were. How hard it was to get own flat, so several generations had been living together in a limited area. Most of these memories we are trying to forget as a nightmare.

Russian woodcraft

Wood carving is a traditional Russian craft. This art occupies a dominant position among other crafts in one way or another related to the processing of wood or its parts. For example, weaving from birch bark or willow vines, the construction of wooden objects. The life of Russia was inextricably linked with wood that was utilized to make cradles and toys for children, cutlery (dishes, spoons), tool for other types of crafts (spindle for yarn and spinning machine), jewelry, furniture

and even transportation (sleds, carts, boats). All these were almost always decorated with wooden carved ornaments. The most popular tree species that are used for carving in Russia are equally related to coniferous and deciduous trees: • Conifers — larch, pine, cedar, spruce, fir, and some others. • Deciduous — Linden, birch, maple, alder, oak, etc. It is worth noting that not many examples of ancient carved items have reached our times. The reason is that the tree is not durable, especially if it is exposed to the constant destructive effects of the sun, wind, and water. Also, it must be mention that these items did not perceive as a piece of art and craft by people.

WOODCARVING AS A DECORATION

Here presented a range of items that were designed by professional artist in the beginning of 20 century. Today, each of these items represents the national heritage, although it has a little to do with truly ancient examples. Nevertheless, these pieces represent the most features and characteristics of traditional Russian home objects. All are made of wood, richly decorated with variety of carving techniques.