Tobolsk Carved Ivory

a type of Russian carved ivory produced in Tobol’sk. Carved ivory items from Tobol’sk have been known since the early 18th century, and the trade in Russian carved ivory originated in the second half of the 19th century. Traditional items are miniature sculptures done primarily from mammoth tusks. The miniatures, frequently group compositions, reflect themes from the life of the peoples of the North. The sculptures are noted for their stylization of forms, decorativeness, and skilled use of the natural properties of the material. Decorative items of applied art, such as ornaments for watch chains, are also made.

In 1960 the Tobol’sk Carved Ivory Factory was organized to replace the Tobol’skii Kostorez Artel, which had been founded in the 1930’s. Master ivory carvers of Tobol’sk include G. G. Kri-voshein, G. A. Khazov, V. I. Denisov, T. S. Peskov, and K. T. Peskov.