Hand-made sovenirs are among the most sought after items among tourists who travel to Russia. One such sovenir is a famous symbol of Russia itself - the nesting doll, also known as matryoshka. Many may be familar with its iconic image but few know their true story.

Matryoshka is a Russian word that’s traveled around the world. Born 120 years ago in this yellow building in the center of Moscow, today matryoshkas are not just toys, but an important symbol of Russia itself.

The owner of the estate was Sava Mamontov - an industrialist and patron of the arts. Nowadays, the building has been turned into a matryoshka museum. Though many traditional handicrafts don’t have an exact birthday, this one is different.

The museum's director, Irina Chertovich, said, "There are two versions of the creation story of matryoshka. The first is that it originated from the Japanese puppet "Seven Lucky Gods". The second is that it’s from the Easter Egg. The matryoshka was born in 1898."

The first version is more commonly accepted. It is said that artist Sergei Maliutin, patronized by a Mr. Mamontov, was intrigued by the Japanese dolls in Mamontov’s house. So he decided to make something similar but with a Russian flavor. Later Maliutin’s wife sent his works to the Paris Expo, where the doll won an award, and gained its fame.

Nowadays "supermatreshkas" can boast up to 72 dolls, with the smallest a scant one millimeter high.

The best timber for matryoshka is soft linden wood. The timber is usually cut down in early spring, separated from its bark, and kept in the open air for at least two to three years to dry. Besides a simple ruler, the only tool needed is a lathe. Processed molds can later be sent to factories or private studios.

Most matryoshka sold in the market are mass produced. But more creative pieces are usually made in studios, and are therefore more expensive.

Nowadays many people are not satisfied with simply purchasing matryoshka, they like to decorate them themselves. In the matryoshka museum, children can’t wait to have a try after visiting.

Painting is an essential part in making matryoshka. Of course, the act is loaded with symbolism. Traditionally, red signifies happiness, and yellow wisdom, while green means health.

Matryoshka is one of the few Russian words that foreigners widely recognize. So it’s no surprise that in Russia the dolls are sold nearly everywhere. Some have even come to see them as a classic tourist-trap souvenier. But to Russians, matryoshka are much more than a set of dolls.

Teacher and artist Natasha at the museum said, "I hope people will always remember matryoshka. It’s the symbol of Russia. Its decoration is so beautiful. Its face shows Russian people's kindness. The matryoshka is based on motherhood."

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