A Hundred Rare Ornaments from the Soviet Era

Drawing on the Museum’s rich collection of Soviet-era holiday memorabilia, A Hundred Rare Ornaments  presents a selection of spun cotton figurines used for tree decoration in the USSR in the 1930s through 1950s.

These eco-friendly ornaments are some of the oldest on the holiday market, originating from 19th century Germany. Imperial Russia produced their own, and the Soviet Union took over the tradition. Spun cotton ornaments were widespread in the 1930s through the 1950s when shiny glass ornaments made them sink into oblivion. On display in the Lower Gallery, these unique cotton figurines feature Young Pioneers, polar explorers, street sweepers, skiers, skaters, children in ethnic dress, snowmen, dogs, foxes, and more. Also presented are papier-mâché masks, New Year posters, paintings, and other remarkable objects from TMORA’s permanent collection.

TMORA is grateful to Kim Balaschak for carefully putting together and donating her remarkable collection, the best in Western hemisphere, of Soviet-era holiday ornaments and memorabilia to The Museum of Russian Art.

A Hundred Rare Ornaments from the Soviet Era is on view in the Lower Gallery November 23, 2024 – January 12, 2025.

Pink Clown, 1930s – 1940s
Spun cotton, paint, mica flakes
Collection of TMORA, Gift of Kim L. and James J. Balaschak

Goat, 1930s – 1940s
Spun cotton
Collection of TMORA, Gift of Kim L. and James J. Balaschak

Poodle, 1930s – 1940s
Spun cotton
Collection of TMORA, Gift of Kim L. and James J. Balaschak

Smiling Elephant, 1930s – 1940s
Spun cotton, paint, mica flakes
Collection of TMORA, Gift of Kim L. and James J. Balaschak