Charming Blossom Zhostovo Hand-painted Tray

The "Zhostovo" trade had its beginnings in the year 1825, first starting off as a private workshop of one Osip Vishnyakov. The very first trays were made from papier-mâché and starting in 1830 a metal base was used in their creation.

Considered a true Russian folk handicraft, they trays are often decorated with lavish flowers, scenes of folk art and other elements of nature. A special lacquer film protects the beauty of the designs, painted in oil on the famous black Zhostovo background.

The secret of the lacquer has been passed down from generation to generation and still remains a mystery, used only in the traditional Zhostovo workshops.