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Kirov Christmas tree: the hidden meaning of the Dymkovo toy and the secrets of the Kukarka lace makers

Kirov Christmas tree: the hidden meaning of the Dymkovo toy and the secrets of the Kukarka lace makers
Photo: Alexey Naritsin
12.02.2023

The Kirov region carefully preserves its folk art crafts. Amazing Dymkovo toys and delicate Kukarka laces decorated the Christmas tree of the region on the main avenue of the VDNH.

The history of Dymkovo toys began in the 16th century in the village of Dymkovo near Vyatka. The folk craft emerged thanks to the spring festival of the Vyatka whistler. For festivities, women sculpted whistles in the shape of different animals and painted them in bright colors. The toy got its name because of the way it was made - when the figurine was fired in the kiln, white smoke would waft over the house.

Photo: Alexey Naritsin

Each figurine has a secret meaning. If you whistle into a bear - you will become strong, into a pig - you will get a rich harvest, into a cow - there will be prosperity in the house, into a ram - you will have a happy life. Dymkovo toy is a symbol of the Kirov region and everyone who comes to visit takes this souvenir with them.IMAGE_6441bd71-52d4-46e8-8b1f-14cc4760fbd9#

A Vyatka matryoshka doll, panels and boards with Vyatka house painting, which was recently included in the intangible cultural heritage of the Kirov region, also settled on the New Year tree of the region. Stylized snowflakes are made in the ornaments of the Kirov or Kukarka lace craft, which is located in Sovetsk (the former Kukarka sloboda of the Vyatka province).

Photo: Alexey Naritsin

On the main avenue of VDNH visitors are greeted by 89 fir trees, each of them representing a region of the country with its folk arts and crafts and traditions. And the 90th blue spruce represents the RUSSIA EXPO itself.

Photo: Alexey Naritsin

The International RUSSIA EXPO is the most important achievements of the country gathered in one place. Throughout the entire time of the exposition, guests can expect cultural and entertainment events, a rich business and educational program. The expositions of 89 Russian regions, leading federal agencies, corporations and public organizations are presented to the visitors.

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