Russian nesting doll
It's hard to find a symbol of Russia more popular than the traditional Russian nesting doll. These decorated wooden dolls "with a secret" are also called matryoshka dolls or babushka dolls. They are recognized even in the countries thousand miles away from Russia. The simplicity and originality of matryoshka dolls attract the fans of Russian folk art from around the world. Bright and picturesque Russian nesting dolls decorate the fireplaces and bookshelves in the homes of thousands of Russians.
Despite the fact that first matryoshka dolls were intended for children, their price was so high that only adults could afford to buy them on special occasions. Matryoshka dolls were often given as a present to young women from their beloved ones. In 1900, the dolls earned a bronze medal at the World Exhibition in Paris. Soon after, Russian nesting dolls became wildly popular. The toys were being produced in several well-known manufacturing centers, the most famous of them being Sergiev Posad and Semenov. In the early twentieth century, Russian nesting dolls were being exported abroad in large quantities. The popularity of the dolls even gave rise to a few companies in Germany which produced counterfeit nesting dolls and sold them as Russian toys.
In 1913, a factory in the city of Semyonov produced a matryoshka dolls set that consisted of 48 figures and was painted in traditional red and yellow colours.
In the meantime, the biggest Russian dolls set was presented at the exhibition in Japan in 1970. Russian masters from Semenov showcased a matryoshka set that included seventy-two figures. The production of such matryoshkas requires exceptional skills and talent, so their mass production is not possible.
If you need unique unusual gift for any special occasion choose matryoshka. You will definitely surprise everyone in a pleasant way. We offer pretty huge range of nesting dolls in our store. Just come and choose your one.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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85.6% Yes
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13.2% No
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
For Sale 4-bed ; 4-bath home in Rangitoto College Zone
This fabulous Freehold family home of approximately 340sqm on 635sqm of land is situated in a cul-de-sac in a well-established family-friendly neighbourhood.
Step inside this exceptional home to an abundance of space and comfort. Everything you could possibly need from multiple bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas, to a designer kitchen, dining and family room with sea view, flowing seamlessly to the private fully fenced outdoor entertaining area which comes with a pizza oven. Perfect for relaxing, hosting family and friends and making memorable moments to cherish.
Four generous double bedrooms including two master bedrooms, two walk-in wardrobes, four bathrooms including two ensuites, a family bathroom/semi ensuite and a superbly located guest toilet.
Downstairs offers space and flexibility of use, ideal for extended family or guests and has its own entrance. Comprising a rumpus, used as a home office/playroom, a kitchen, dining, living area connecting seamlessly to private landscaped outdoor living adjacent to bush/reserve filled with bird song. The fourth bathroom is on this level as is a large separate laundry.
Seven heat pumps throughout this meticulously maintained family home ensure comfort. There is a central vac system and lots of storage space.
Plenty of parking available: a Double internal-access garage plus off-street parking for up to 5 cars - including a boat or campervan - also parking bays in the cul de sac.
A choice of excellent schools: Rangitoto College; Long Bay College; Northcross Intermediate, Sherwood Primary and Pinehill Primary Schools.
www.barfoot.co.nz......
Gabrielle Elborough
Real Estate Agent
021 257 5018
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