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Overview
A matching pair of Russian Shemogodskaya birch bark canisters with pierced openwork carving. Each canister has a wide central band of curling leaves, berry clusters and scrolling stems cut through the pale outer bark and set over a darker bark lining, so the pattern stands out clearly. Narrower bands of scrolling vines run above and below the main panel, and the top and bottom rims are finished with a diagonal bark-strip binding. Each has a fitted wooden lid with a birch bark top and a bent bark loop handle. The two pieces differ slightly in pattern and color, one a warm honey tone and the other paler. They suit a kitchen shelf, desk, bookcase or mantel, and can hold small dry items or keepsakes.
Background
Shemogodskaya carving comes from the Vologda region of northern Russia, where craftsmen cut lace-like floral patterns through thin sheets of birch bark and lay them over a darker backing. The craft has been practiced for well over a century and continues in workshops today. This pair is unmarked and unsigned. The bodies are made of layered birch bark with stitched bark rims, and the lids are wood with birch bark tops.
Condition
Good condition with no breaks or losses to the carved panels. Both lids fit well and the bottoms are intact. There is light discoloration and a few dark marks on the bark, mostly on one canister, and surface wear, small scratches and fine splits in the bark on the lids and handles. One lid has a small white mark on top. Please see all photos.
Dimensions & Weight
Each canister is about 5.5 inches tall and 3.4 inches in diameter. The pair weighs about 6.3 oz in total.
Shipping
Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.
