identification History and Origin | Materials and Construction

The images generated by midjourney seem to have women at the centre of the making of the Matryoshka Doll which would be due to the meaning behind Matryoshka or simply being it is a delicate process involving detaling which requires smaller and dainty hands

Midjourney

Does not depict the “step-by-step” process clearly and the process of woodturning seems to be missing from the images.

This image shows the geometry of the Matryoshka doll. The seam across the piece indicates the two halves- the head and body. This single unit is hollow and nests smaller versions of the main doll

Most of the Matryoshka have depictions and imagerry of women and females painted. This is true to the very essence of what a Matryoshka is as it is a symbol of womanhood, family and matriarchy which are important values in Russian culture as corroberated by conducted research

Images generated showcase a workshop setting for the process of making and contructing the doll as it would have been the mode of “manufacturining” in the 1890s. This also may give us a look into the non commercial aspect of this cultural artefact in those times as each doll is handmade

The dolls in these images seem to have a curved smooth surface that could be due to the material used to make these artefacts. The material that were used were soft woods that could easily be handled and smoothened using woodturning processes. The smooth surfaces are easier to paint ontricate details on

Prompt 4

“The process of construction and making of the Matryoshka doll in the 1890s in Russia”

Prompt 5

The process of construction and making of the Matryoshka doll in the 1890s in Russia as an overlay --seed 1619065665

Prompt 6

“The step by step process of construction and making of the Matryoshka doll in the 1890s in Russia”

Small tools can be seen in these images which could be due to the fact that it takes great artistic skill and precison to make intricate details as seen on many Matryoshka dolls

Smaller sizes shown which depict the smaller dolls that are nested within the larger dolls. This symbolises the meaning of the artefact, where the samller dolls represents the younger the generation of a family

Prompt 7

“The step-by-step process of construction and making of the Matryoshka doll in the 1890s in Russia as a flatlay --seed 491975444”

Aesthetic and Craft

After the turning and carving process is complete, like Michelangelo’s Sistine chapel painting, Russian dolls are genuine works of art. Artists dedicate years of learning to perfect the art of portrait painting on Russian nesting dolls.Painting a nesting doll requires immense precision and skill because each doll tells a story, and they come in petite sizes. [7]

The first Russian nesting doll set depicted a peasant family. It contained eight pieces; a mother and seven children. The first nesting dolls of Sergiev Posad portrayed this colorful life: young girls dressed in Russian sarafans carrying baskets, scythes, bunches of flowers or dressed in winter short fur coats and scarves; old believer women in their conservative clothes; a bride and a bridegroom holding candles in their hands; a shepherd with a pipe; and old man with a lush beard. [7]

Sometimes nesting doll represented the whole family with numerous children and members of household. Some nesting dolls were devoted to historical themes. They portrayed boyars and their wives, Russian nobility of the 17th century and legendary Russian bogatyrs (warriors). Some nesting dolls were devoted to the book characters. For instance, in 1909 to celebrate the centenary of Gogol’s birth, a series of nesting dolls portrayed the characters of his books. In 1912, to celebrate the centenary of the Patriotic War against Napoleon nesting dolls portrayed Kutuzov and Napoleon whose figurines contained smaller figurines of their field commanders. Some nesting dolls borrowed their subjects from folk tales and folk heroic sagas: Tsar Dadon and Princess Swan from Pushkin’s tales, The Little Humpbacked Horse from Yershov’s tale, some characters from Krylov’s fable The Quartet. [8]

Types of Matryoksha Dolls

There are five varieties in total, these are Tver, Semenov, Vyatka, as well as Polkhov-Maidan and Zagorsk, which are also called Sergiev Posad nesting dolls.

Tver variety of Matryoshka

This is the most fabulous and interesting matryoshka, since the dolls themselves are made in the form of heroes of Russian folk tales, such as Vasilisa the Wise and the Beautiful, Princess Nesmeyana and others. Each subsequent doll is different from the previous one, so it will be interesting for any child and adult to look inside the nesting dolls. There are nesting dolls of large sizes, and there are also tiny ones, it all depends on the level of skill of the manufacturer.

Semyonovskaya variety of Matryoshka

You can get such a nesting doll by buying it in any souvenir shop, since this type of doll has been produced on a large scale for a long time, this is not an exclusive doll. But such a matryoshka is a real village woman, with a painted scarf and a flower dress. They paint the Semenov matryoshka without adhering to certain canons. These types of nesting dolls are suitable for creativity, especially for children, since they do not require the implementation of clear painting rules.

Vyatka variety of

Matryoshka

A feature of this kind of doll is its decoration, and these are not only complex and neat drawings, but also the use of such material as rye straw, which is glued on top of the paint, creating a unique costume. Such types of nesting dolls began to be produced only in the 60s. Only a real craftsman can paint and “dress” a doll on his own.

Polkhov-Maidanskaya variety of Matryoshka

This type of doll is very interesting, the masters are favorably distinguished from all the others by the variety of toy painting. There are several varieties of coloring, these are flowers with and without a tip, sheathing, as well as drawings made under oil. These types of nesting dolls are made exclusively in the city of Polkhovo-Maidansk, which attracts tourists here – collectors of Russian folk art. Another feature of this kind of doll is its shape. From its sisters, the Polkhov-Maidan matryoshka differs in size and various shapes, both round and oblong, elongated and flattened.

Sergiev Posad variety of Matryoshka

Such types of nesting dolls are also called Zagorsk. The uniqueness of this doll lies in the fact that it is painted in an interesting manner, simple, but at the same time exquisite. The doll is wearing a scarf, from under which you can see a protruding strand of hair. It is painted with gouache, there is a beautiful sundress and a shirt, rather laconic, without large-scale flowers, but with a simple snake. On this kind of dolls, usually, they also draw an apron. Zagorsk matryoshka is a simple Russian girl, without too much gloss

Prompts Results clicked on Insights

https://www.russlandjournal.de/en/russia/matryoshka-russian-nesting-doll/ https://fashion-en.decorexpro.com/matreshka/semenovskie/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvnywYtqL_Q https://firebirdworkshop.com/blogs/our-blog/painting-the-matryoshka-doll https://firebirdworkshop.com/blogs/our-blog/how-matryoshka-russian-dolls-are-made https://therussiantreasures.com/news/types-of-nesting-dolls/#:~:text=Matryoshka%20is%20a%20Russian%20 wooden,called%20Sergiev%20Posad%20nesting%20dolls. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Abramtsevo#ref1214320 https://nestingdolls.co/blogs/posts/nesting-dolls-how-made https://russianlife.com/the-russia-file/matryoshka-soul-of-russia/

1) Information found was easily accesible through the keywords

2) It took a considerable amount of time to find the types as it was difficult to differentiate them without various referencing through other links (which are not added to the list)

3) Did not take as long as the previous desk research due to previous experience and knowledge gained on the artefact

Time spent

Approximately 3-4 hours

Keywords included:

Types, people, places and designs

Sources used:

These were sources used for the desk research part of my research although there were other sources accessed but not used

Prompt #1

Pretend to be an expert art director from the firebird workshop company based in St. Petersburg whose expertise is in Matryoshka dolls to provide me insights on the artistic decisions and aesthetics taken to make these dolls with respect to designs, colour, type of art and stories depiction

Continuing the same thread and Insights

Design

Aesthetic and Craft

Designs

When creating Matryoshka dolls, the overall design and theme is carefully considered. Traditional Matryoshkas usually depict a set of nested wooden dolls, with the outermost doll representing a woman, typically dressed in traditional Russian attire. However, there are also various innovative designs, incorporating themes from nature, fairy tales, historical figures, and cultural elements, while still retaining the essence of the traditional form.

Colors

The choice of colors is crucial in conveying the desired aesthetic appeal and storytelling. A selection of vibrant and eye-catching colors are used to bring the dolls to life and make them visually engaging. Each color is carefully chosen to complement the overall design and evoke emotions tied to the story or theme.

Type of Art

Matryoshka dolls are hand-painted by skilled artisans, and the type of art we use depends on the design and complexity of the doll.

They incorporating a mix of techniques, including folk art, floral patterns, and miniature painting, to add depth and intricacy to the dolls. This combination of artistic styles ensures that every doll is a unique masterpiece, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Russia.

Stories Depiction

Matryoshka dolls are not just wooden toys but also vessels of storytelling and cultural representation. A great care is taken in depicting stories and folklore on the dolls, capturing key moments or characters that are significant in Russian history and traditions. From famous literary characters to folktales and historical events, each doll’s design seeks to narrate a tale that resonates with its audience.

Symbolism

Symbolism plays a vital role in Matryoshka doll designs. The number of nested dolls can represent family generations or stages of life, while the motifs and patterns carry symbolic meanings such as fertility, protection, and prosperity. These are carefully incorporated to create meaningful and culturally significant pieces of art.

Quality and Craftsmanship

A strong emphasis on craftsmanship and qualityis placed. Artisans meticulously carve and paint each doll by hand, ensuring attention to detail and artistic finesse in every piece.High-quality materials is used, preserving the authenticity and durability of the Matryoshka dolls.

After a initial conversation has been initiated, the outcome seems to be more precise and informative. This question was with respect to analyse the artefact through the STEEPLE analysis

The popularity and significance of Matryoshka dolls in Russia are influenced by several sociocultural trends.

Firstly, there has been a revival of cultural heritage in recent years, making these dolls a symbol of national pride and identity. Secondly, the dolls evoke feelings of nostalgia and sentimentality , both for locals and tourists, leading to increased demand. Thirdly, there is a growing interest in artistic innovation and modernization , keeping the dolls relevant in today’s world. Additionally, Russia’s cultural influence globally has led to increased interest in Matryoshka dolls among international collectors. Social media and digital marketing have played a significant role in promoting these dolls to a broader audience. Moreover, the customization trend caters to individual preferences and enhances the emotional connection customers have with their dolls. Lastly, cultural events and festivals in Russia provide a platform to showcase the craftsmanship of Matryoshka dolls and attract enthusiasts and collectors.

Within the same conversation, the AI model generated the above message but continued to provide information anyways

The Russian Arts and Crafts industry, including the production and sale of Matryoshka Dolls, has been experiencing steady growth in recent years. The revival of interest in traditional Russian culture, combined with a rise in tourism and global interest in Russian art, has contributed to increased customer spending on these dolls.

St. Petersburg, being a major cultural hub in Russia and renowned for its artistic heritage, plays a significant role in the Matryoshka Doll industry. The revenue generated from the production, sale, and export of these dolls contributes positively to the local economy of St. Petersburg.

Continuing the same thread and Insights

Act like the director of the State Hermitage Museum, Mikhail Piotrovsky to give a deep understanding of the relation between the art and designs found on Matryoshka Dolls with respect to the political landscape of those respecting designs

Design

Influences on the Designs

Influences through the Political Landscape of Russia over a 100 years on the Matryoshka Doll

First and foremost, the Matryoshka Dolls are representative of the communal spirit of Russia, reflecting the importance of family and unity within the society. The larger outer doll, known as the “mother” doll, embraces the smaller dolls inside, symbolizing the nurturing role of the matriarch and the interconnectedness of generations. Such themes have been cherished in Russian culture throughout its history, and the Matryoshka Dolls serve as an artistic expression of these values.

Moreover, as we delve deeper into the art and designs adorning these dolls, we begin to observe the reflections of the political landscape of their respective periods. Matryoshka Dolls have evolved over time, mirroring the shifting socio-political circumstances that Russia experienced.

Important time periods

• During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Matryoshka Dolls depicted rural life, folk motifs, and the Imperial family, symbolizing national identity and loyalty to the monarchy.

• During the Russian Revolution in 1917, the dolls changed to feature revolutionary leaders and working-class themes, spreading revolutionary ideals and propaganda.

• And, In the Soviet era, Matryoshka Dolls reflected collective identity and socialist values with designs of workers and farmers, while preserving their artistic craftsmanship.

An interesting insight drawn using STEEPLE analysis- connecting technology and the cultural artefact. The prompt and question influenced by a persona of this stature seems to give valuable information on the same

Implications of Technological Innovations

Technological advancements have undoubtedly brought about significant changes in the way Matryoshka Dolls are produced in the modern era. Traditionally, crafting these dolls required skilled artisans who meticulously carved and painted each doll by hand, resulting in a one-of-a-kind piece of art. However, with the advent of automated machinery and mass production techniques, the production process has been streamlined and made more efficient.

One of the primary consequences of this shift is the potential loss of the intimate connection between the artist and the artwork. When Matryoshka Dolls are mass-produced using machines, the individual touch, creativity, and nuances that come with a handmade piece may diminish. Each doll becomes identical to the next, lacking the unique character and soul that is imparted by the human hand. This loss of individuality can be seen as a departure from the essence of true Russian artistry, which has historically celebrated the skilled craftsmanship and personal expression of the artist.

Furthermore, the introduction of technology may lead to a change in the materials used for crafting Matryoshka Dolls. Traditional dolls were often made from wood, emphasizing the connection to nature and the organic elements of the Russian countryside. However, modern manufacturing techniques might introduce synthetic materials, compromising the authentic charm of the wooden dolls and distancing them from their cultural origins.

Can be considered a failed attempt to get accurate or even close results. The traditonal and aunthentic Matryoshka have painting that are symbolic in nature and not direct representations of situations. These images generated are not in a Russian context either

Bright and bold colors are used to make these dolls more attractive and visually appealing and to envoke emotions. This particular set of dolls seem to have a theme of black, red and white/cream

This image generated has been a unsuccessful outcome, maybe due to the prompt entered not having correct weightages or having too many keywords . It showcases more of intricate motifs and designs of nature as seen on many Matryoshkas and the usual feminine entity

Prompt 1

“The types of Matryoshka dolls based on different political landscapes in Russia”

This image showcases Matryoshkas with simple yet powerful motifs that may corrobrate with previous mentioned research which is the influence of folk art in traditonal 19th century artefacts of the same

Prompt 2

“Different motifs and patterns influenced by the 19th-century political landscape in Russia symbolised on Matryoksha Dolls”

Prompt 3

“Matryoshka dolls painted with motifs influenced by the Russian monarchy from 19th century, the simple peasant life nature and folk tales”

Exploring weightages in Midjourney, these images have Matryoshkas with a blend of members of Royal family, pesants in the rural russian countryside and nature. These themes- of royal authority and peasant life, usually would not be in the same set of dolls

Prompt 4

Matryoshka dolls painted with motifs influenced by the Russian monarchy :: 4 from 19th century :: 4, the simple peasant life :: 2 nature :: 1 and folk tales :: 1

Matryoshkas from Tver are characterized by a particular liveliness of their eyes, painted as realistically as possible.

Semenovo painting is distinguished by large flowers with a painted scarf and a flower dress. The blend between the two can be seen with the addition of these minute but distinguihing design elements

Using the weight parameter on midjourney to get some interesting art styles and motifs. The Semenova element of village woman, with a painted scarf and addition of floral designs is evident in this image

Russian folk art inspired by folk stories heavily influenced by nature and animals. This outcome however does not show the Semenova style of a Matryoshka doll

Although these are not “unusual” colors seen on these artefacts, the design and motifs are not traditional. Matryoshka patterns and motifs are more subtle yet intricate and highly detailed

Prompt 5

Using the blend feature, I used two images - one that depicted the Semenovostyle and the other was Tver style

Prompt 6

“Nesting dolls in the Semenovo style ::5 with intricate russian folk art ::4 painted on the surface”

Prompt 7

“Matryoshka dolls that are painted with to the unusual colors and paint”

The main feature or element of that makes an appearance on most styles of Matryoshkas are the village/peasant woman which can be seen here although is a blend of an outcome that wasnt so traditonal, the end image generated leans towards a traditonal outcome.

Prompt 8

Using the blend option, I blended the image with the Matryoshka with unsual colors with a traditional style of a Matryoshka

Significance

Cultural Importance and Evolution

Japanese Influences

Matryoshka goes further than 125 years back. The first Matryoshka appeared in the late 19th century near Moscow. The doll’s ancestor is a figure of the Japanese sage Fukurama which depicted a good-natured old man with an outstretched head. The figure could be split and had a smaller-sized figure of the same sage hidden inside, which in its turn also contained a smaller sage, and so on until the fifth one. [10]

The soul of Russian Culture

The main purpose of the doll is to surprise. Matryoshka can be not only a female; some portray young cowherds, others a bride and a groom, famous artists and politicians.

Craftsmen who paint Matryoshka are in no way limited to their imagination: the richness of colors, various styles of clothing. Sets of Matryoshka dolls can be dedicated to the historical events, illustrate characters of fairy tales, fables and other literary works. The growing popularity of matryoshkas quickly led to the fact that, besides the traditional girls in headscarves, their imagery was enriched by characters from fairy tales and literary works, famous historical figures and representatives of different strata of society. [10]

Why Matryoshka?

The name “matryoshka” literally means “little matron” pertaining to the Russian female first name “Matryona” or “Matriosha”.

Regardless of the name, the biggest doll of the matryoshka set symbolizes the mother of a Russian family. The shape was inspired by a mother’s portly figure depicting her fertility and her significance as the center of the traditional Russian family. The act of nesting the dolls inside the biggest doll represents the mother and her ability to carry and conceive her sons and daughters. This justifies the basis of females always being the biggest dolls in the set. [11]

Having a big family is a common culture and practice in Russia. But this doesn’t just rely on the mother’s capability to have as many children as she can. This also includes extended members of the family who are all present under one roof. Aunts and uncles, grandparents, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and grandchildren all play a role in the traditional Russian family.

The first Matryoshka doll, which has since then become a symbol of motherhood, was painted under the image of a simple peasant girl in a sundress with an apron and a kerchief on her head. Till now Matryoshka symbolizes the continuation of life. [11]

Prompts Results clicked on Insights

https://russianlife.com/the-russia-file/matryoshka-soul-of-russia/ https://firebirdworkshop.com/blogs/our-blog/russian-nesting-doll-history https://www.russlandjournal.de/en/russia/matryoshka-russian-nesting-doll/ https://fashion-en.decorexpro.com/matreshka/semenovskie/ https://trippyspirit.com/spirituality/spiritual-meaning-of-russian-dolls/ https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2021/10/matryoshka-dolls-its-not-the-form-but-the-meaning-history-traditionand-modernity https://nestingdolls.co/blogs/posts/meaning-symbolism-nesting-dolls https://russianlegacy.com/matryoshka-nesting-dolls https://nestingdolls.co/blogs/posts/history-nesting-dolls

1) Did not take as much time as previous Desk Research as alot of time and effort was put before while conducting previous research

2) A majority of the sources were stating the same information making it easy to cross reference and add

3) Almost all articles and sources seem to weigh an emphasis on the symbolism and cultural significance of the artefact and hence information on the same was easy to procure

Time spent

45 mins - 1 hour

Keywords included: Places, culture, family, society, symbolism and meaning

Sources used:

These were sources used for the desk research part of my research. Most of these sources are repetitive from previous links as they contained a whole round of the information on Matryoshka dolls

Prompt #1 [ structured as an interview]

Pretend to be an avid collector of Russian art and crafts who has an extensive collection of all types of Matryoshka dolls. Give me an insight as to why you collect these dolls in particular?

Continuing the same thread and Insights

Significance

Cultural Importance

Envoking feelings

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Matryoshka dolls hold a symbolic significance that resonates. The idea of nested dolls, with each one revealing a smaller doll inside, represents the concept of multiple layers of identity and the endless discovery of hidden treasures within ourselves and others. It’s a beautiful metaphor for the complexities of human nature and the never-ending journey of self-discovery.

Facination

Matryoshka dolls allows us to explore different historical periods and artistic styles of Russia. Over the years, various Matryoshka dolls from various regions have been collected, each reflecting its distinct regional characteristics and cultural influences. This collection not only showcases the diversity of Russian craftsmanship but also serves as a window into the rich tapestry of Russia’s history and traditions.

Moreover, the process of finding and acquiring these dolls brings us closer to other enthusiasts and collectors, leading to meaningful connections and shared experiences.

Attending exhibitions, auctions, and cultural events centered around Matryoshka dolls have enriched the understanding of Russian culture.

Interview style prompts and questions seem to work well. Chat GPT responds to the question well but gives large amounts of information which isnt very valuable.

Connection to Traditions

Matryoshka dolls is a vital part of preserving and embracing Russian cultural identity in multiple meaningful ways. These iconic symbols of Russian culture serve as tangible links to heritage, representing the artistry and craftsmanship passed down through generations. Collecting them connects people to my family’s traditions and history, strengthening bonds and shared cultural heritage. Additionally, it sparks curiosity about Russia’s history and traditional arts, expanding an appreciation for its richness. Furthermore, being part of a global community of collectors provides a sense of belonging and intergenerational connection.

The reasoning behind framing this particular prompt as an interview was because I wanted to gain insights (although through AI) on personal experiences of how the Matryoshka doll has a cultural significance on the youth of today

The results of the interview although insightful seems to be repetitive and framed differently. Required alot of cutting down and reframing.

Matryoshka dolls are a testament to traditional craftsmanship, passed down through generations of skilled artisans. The nesting design symbolizes family and continuity, resonating with my appreciation for Russian culture and the role of women.

The dolls’ regional diversity allows space to explore the cultural richness within the country, fostering curiosity about unique customs and traditions. The hand-painted artistry of each doll is captivating, showcasing intricate floral patterns and historical scenes, celebrating the beauty of Russian aesthetics.

Prompt #1 significance

Pretend you were the curator of the Russian National Exhibition in Paris in 2010 where an exhibition of giant Russian dolls was presented. Through your experience and expertise, would you be able to give me more information on the evolution of the Matryoshka doll from what it was and what it is today with respect to its cultural significance?

Continuing the same thread and Insights

Evolution of the Artefact

Over time, Matryoshka dolls have evolved in several ways:

Artistic Expression : Initially, the dolls had a simple and traditional design, but as they gained popularity, artists began to experiment with different themes, styles, and levels of intricacy. Today, you can find Matryoshka dolls depicting various scenes, fairy tales, landscapes, and even modern pop culture icons.

Regional Variations Different regions in Russia developed their own unique styles of Matryoshka dolls, reflecting local artistic traditions and cultural influences. For example, dolls from the Palekh region feature intricate hand-painted designs, while those from Sergiyev Posad may display religious motifs.

Collectibles and Souvenirs : Matryoshka dolls have become popular collectibles and souvenirs for tourists visiting Russia. Tourist-oriented dolls often depict iconic Russian landmarks or symbols, appealing to a broader international audience.

Artistic Collaborations : In recent years, artists and designers from around the world have collaborated with Russian craftsmen to create innovative and unique Matryoshka dolls, blending traditional art with contemporary ideas.

Culturally, Matryoshka dolls hold significant symbolism beyond their artistic appeal. They represent the concept of unity, family, and continuity, as the smaller dolls are protected and nested within the larger ones. The Matryoshka also embodies the Russian spirit of resilience and strength, as it can withstand external pressures while maintaining its core identity.

Political Themes

After a initial conversation has been initiated I wanted to attempt to analyse the artefact through the STEEPLE analysis through a political landscape and how that affects the designs featured on the doll

Matryoshka dolls have been used as a form of artistic expression to reflect and comment on current political events and figures in Russia. Artists and craftsmen have created Matryoshka dolls featuring political leaders, prominent figures, or symbols related to political movements, both in support and opposition. For instance, you may find Matryoshka dolls depicting Russian presidents, politicians, or even international political figures, as a way to capture the public’s attention and create a dialogue about current political issues.

National Identity

Within the same conversation, the AI model generated the above message but continued to provide information anyways

In times of heightened nationalism or changes in political ideologies, Matryoshka dolls have been used to reinforce or redefine the notion of Russian identity. These dolls may feature iconic symbols, historical figures, or patriotic themes, aiming to promote a sense of unity and pride among the population.

Consumer Demand

The demand for Matryoshka dolls can also be influenced by political events. For example, during times of political upheaval or significant political changes, tourists and collectors may show an increased interest in acquiring dolls that symbolize those events or leaders.

In an image that shows various artefcats of Russian origin, the Matryoshka is identified by midjourney as a symbolic cultural artefact amongst other things

Other forms of the Matryoshka are seen, although the keywords used were family, which is depicted alot of the imagery depicts relegion and the church which could be symbolic of the word unity. The Matryoshka through the research can be founf to be an influencial cultural artefact across various spectrums of society

Unsuprising again, midjourney correctly identifies the traditional Semenovo style of painting on a Matryoshka as the artefact as the symbolism for the matriachal society of Russia

This image generation was due to a prompt framking mistake on my part but did give some insights. The weightages of the Matryoshka was too less in comparison to the weights given to other words like cultural heritage and “paintings of family”

Prompt 1

“ A Russian cultural artefact that symbolises family, unity and heritage”

Prompt 2

“The matryoshka symbolising the matriarchal culture and importance of women in Russian society”

Prompt 3

“Matryoshka depicting motifs and paintings of family:: 2, cultural unity:: 2 and cultural heritage:: 4”

Another learning opportunity, the use of weights would have helped here to give a more clear output but it was interesting to see a blend of paintings depicting war or moody/sullen paintings on the Matryoshkas

Prompt 4

“The matryoshka with paintings and motifs symbolising recent political unrest and turmoil between Russia and Ukraine”