If you find yourself in Nizhny Tagil, be sure to visit the Museum of Tray Crafts, where unique examples of the painting of ancient dishes are presented. The local painting is a unique phenomenon of Russian culture, characteristic only of this region. According to archival data, this folk craft emerged in the mid-18th century. Initially, peasants and artisans painted chests and small tables. With the development of metallurgical plants, various dishes began to be produced here, among which trays were particularly popular. To protect iron products from corrosion, a technology for coating trays with linseed oil followed by firing in a Russian oven was developed. Thus, the first trays were painted for practical reasons rather than for beauty.

Over time, the craft became a distinct form of art, and local artisans began to receive orders. Here, the individuality of the masters was expressed, who depicted historical and mythological themes, as well as landscapes on plates and trays. In the Museum of Tray Crafts, you can see detailed images of ripe bunches of grapes, lush roses, juicy berries, curling stems, and blades of grass. The artisans Khudoyarov achieved particular success, as their painted dishes were in high demand at fairs. The museum is located in their former home.

Industrialist Nikolai Demidov played a significant role in the development of Tagil painting. An art school was established at the metallurgical plant, where children from the age of 12 were accepted on full support. The training lasted 4 years, after which graduates began to work. At the end of the 19th century, with the onset of technical progress, a slight decline began. The invention of a press for making molds made the work of artisans less in demand, as drawings and prints could be done by machines. Fortunately, the secrets of Tagil painting have not been lost, and the folk craft is alive to this day!