Matryoshka, one of the most popular Russian souvenirs, is a wooden and hand-painted doll consisted of some other dolls nestled one in another. Traditionally a child's toy, the first Matryoshka doll reflected the image of a healthy peasant girl, with similar images of the dolls within. Matryoshka dolls are made out of lime or birch wood that has been aged for several years.

The first Russian nesting doll (Matryoshka) was born in 1890. The name "Matryoshka" comes from Matryona, which was a very popular female name among peasants in old Russia. The name Matryona itself is related to the Latin root "mater" and means "Mother". Thus, the name is closely connected with motherhood and accordingly the doll has come to symbolize fertility - a mother doll with numerous offspring.

The Matryoshka dolls symbolize good luck and peace in the family. Here we represent matryoshkas made in different parts of Russia.