The name of Russian wood painting is Khokhloma, also Kohloma is vividly painted usually with berries, leaves and flower patterns. The art form can be seen in spoons, egg cups, bowls, canisters ornamental art pieces and furniture. Typical colours are red and black with a gold background - all highly polished.

The style originated in the village of Khokhloma in the Koverninsky District of the Volga Region of Russia first appearing in the second half of the 17th Century. The handicraft owes its beginning to Eastern Orthodox Christians who on fleeing persecution from officials, hid in local woods.

Articles carved out of wood were primed with clay mortar. linseed oil and tin powder. The design was then painted on top, coated with linseed oil then fired in a high-temperature kiln.

The style lost favour early in the 20th Century, however in the '60s, the Soviets built a factory near Khokhloma village and another in Semyonov. Together these two factories now produce Khokhloma for commercial purposes.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org