Exquisite carved wooden
sculptures, toys and figures come from the ancient settlement of
Bogorodskoye (pop. 9000), Russia, where master wood carvers handed down
traditions through many generations. The village was formerly known as
Medvezhy Ugol (Bear's Haunt) because of the thick woods
surrounding it. Wooden toy soldiers made here over 300 years ago were played with by Peter the Great. The
action of a twirling wooden ball on a string makes the bear (a favorite
character, but not an exclusive one) perform actions, such as playing
the drums or piano, play at chess, or juggle balls. Some also are
activated by push-button action.
These carvings are prized by
collectors young and old. Most are affordably priced. Common scenes
include: Two Bears Playing Chess, Bear Showering, Rabbit Rowing a Boat,
Casino Bears, Bear Playing Piano, Bear Roasting Mushrooms and many, many
more. And as to the reason why the finished carvings are never (seldom)
painted? It's mainly because the white wood provides a warmth that finished wood does not.
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