The world’s only museum dedicated to the traditional Zhostovo trays explores the history of the handicraft in Russia since the Zhostovo factory’s foundation in 1825. You will see historical items in a variety of shapes and designs and learn about the ancient techniques of making, painting and finishing the trays, such as, for example, smoking the edges with a candle. During the 1930s the factory attracted some of the finest contemporary artists – including Pyotr Konchalovsky, Boris Lange and Pavel Spassky – to give workshops to the artisans. The resulting works are among the most sophisticated on display.

During the Second World War the factory made potbelly stoves, and the artisans painted buckets to practise their skills. As part of your visit you will also see a live demonstration of tray painting and a short video.