Khokhloma

Golden Khokhloma painting on wood is a Russian folk art trade. It appeared in the 17th century in the Koverninsky region near the city of Nishniy Novgorod which is east of Moscow. The name of the trade comes from the name of the village Khokhloma. In the early 18th to 20th centuries this village was a trade center of articles painted in the style of "Khokhloma". Characterized by an original technique of hand painting wood items such as tableware, vases, boxes and furniture in gold color, then red and black, often with various berries. They appear to be only decorative because they are so beautiful, but are totally functional and safe to eat and drink from. (However, hand wash carefully, no scrubie pads.)