Amongst many Russian sayings, one -- in the end of ends -- is one that Mama and Papa, Babushka, aunts and uncles often used during the course of a conversation. What does it mean?

Iconography, in my opinion, is a form of non secular art. It has a long history in Russia where icons are venerated and hold a special place in the church and home.

If one were to spend a minute viewing each and every one of the Hermitage museum’s pieces, it would take more than a decade to see them all! Read more about one of the finest museums in the world.

The hen or chicken, called the coo-ree-tza, is an ancient symbol of happiness in Russia. Hens can be found everywhere in Russia: from her folktales to folk art such as the matrioshka or nesting doll and all over the land.

The name Faberge evokes images of beautifully crafted items from jewelry to writing sets. It reminds me of days when quality reigned supreme over quantity.

Russia’s best known and recognizable folk craft items are the nesting dolls known as matrioshka dolls. These dolls come in a wide array of colors, sizes and motifs and represent Russia herself.