Matrioska or babushka is a Russian traditional doll made of wood. Matrioska which is known as "Russian nesting doll" actually is a simple doll, but what it makes so unique and interesting is this doll refer to a set wooden dolls of decreasing size placed one inside from the other. Traditionally the outer layer is a woman, dressed in a sarafan, a long and shapeless traditional Russian peasant jumper dress. Much of the artistry is in the painting of each doll, which can be very elaborate.
The figure inside maybe of either gender the smallest, innermost doll is typically a baby turned from a single piece of wood. A set of matrioska consist of wooden figures which separates, top from bottom. The number of nested figures is traditionally not less than five, but can be much more. The form is approximatelly cylindrical with a rounded top for the head, tapering toward to the bottom.
Matrioska, a Russian nesting doll
