In the past, pottery was a developed craft in Russia, and there were national crafts unique to certain regions, such as the Abashevo toy in the Penza region. This craft originated in the mid-17th century when peasants from the village of Abashevo discovered clay with unique properties; it was very elastic and resistant to firing. Initially, artisans made dishes and pots, but later shifted to creating toys and whistles.

Some researchers believe that these products reflect ancient Russian motifs. Figures of cows, rams, and goats symbolize attachment to home and native land, while deer and aurochs represent respect for the forces of nature. The colors are also unusual: red symbolizes blood and struggle, blue represents water, and green signifies spring as a sign of the rebirth of life. Initially, toys were painted with oil paints and varnished, but with the advent of enamel, artisans switched to a new technology. Bright and original Abashevo toys quickly gained popularity in the Volga region and were even exhibited at international exhibitions in France and England.

Some toys have amusing stories. Researcher Nikolai Tsereteli recalled asking a craftsman about the meaning of a toy depicting an officer in parade uniform with a bird under his arm. The craftsman, named Larion Zotkin, shyly smiled and replied that the officer had stolen a rooster. Other figures hint at the features of local noblewomen or soldiers who passed through these places. The Abashevo toy is one of the few Russian crafts that has survived to this day. Whistles and figures continue to be made today. They can be seen in the Museum of Folk Art in Penza and in the Museum of Abashevo Toys in the Spassky District of the Penza region.