Balalaika Collection (#2)

Russian interior scene, 1856. From the collection of the Bibliotheque Nationale de France, Paris

Travellers rest before an inn, Jan Baptist de Wael, 1642 - 1669

Woman plays guitar and is a model for artist, Johannes Christiaan Bendorp, Johannes Immerzeel, 1776 - 1847

Woman reading a letter with a man at the table, Cornelis Hubert van Meurs, 1740 - 1760

Dwarf with guitar; Dwarf with sword and mask, Jacques Callot, Abraham Bosse, 1621 - 1676
Grotesque figure with hurdy-gurdy; Dwarf with grill and sword, Jacques Callot, Abraham Bosse, 1621 - 1676

RUSSIAN FAMILY, c1875. A tableau photograph of a Russian peasant family seated at an outdoor table, with a man playing a balalaika, c1875

RUSSIA: MUSIC. A Russian man playing a balalaika. Drawing by Ch. Huhn, c1862

Turkish band - traditional instruments Date: 1939

A t-34 tank provides a suitable stage, at the front, for a group of kiev entertainers performing for the troops of the 3rd ukrainian front during world war ll

COURTSHIP IN RUSSIA, 1880. Wood engraving, English, 1880

BALALAIKA. Line engraving, German, late 19th century

BALALAIKA PLAYERS. Ernest Torrance and Renee Adoree playing the balalaika, a Russian three-stringed instrument, in a still from the 1928 motion picture The Cossacks

Learning the Balalaika
A group of Russian children being taught how to play the balalaika and mandolin, with piano accompaniment

Social / Russia / Village
A group of villagers relax with some music and dance

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The balalaika, a traditional Russian musical instrument, has captivated audiences for centuries. Known as the "Devil's Balalaika, " its enchanting melodies have both intrigued and mesmerized listeners. In the hands of a skilled Russian balalaika player, this three-stringed instrument produces soul-stirring tunes that transport you to another world. Throughout history, the balalaika has been an integral part of Russian culture, and is often associated with folk music and dances, evoking images of Russians dancing in village squares during the 18th century. The Tatar musicians in a Crimean town square during the mid-19th century showcased their mastery over this unique instrument. A portrait from between 1886 and 1895 captures an unidentified man holding his beloved balalaika close to his heart. The intricate carvings on a trompe l'oeil chair made from wood in 1870 demonstrate the craftsmanship dedicated to preserving this musical heritage. Not limited to Russia alone, costumes of Asia also feature colored engravings depicting musicians playing their own versions of similar instruments. This highlights how music transcends borders and connects people across cultures. In more recent times, even beyond its musical significance, the balalaika left its mark on other domains. In an unexpected turn of events at Dahlia Stks race event, aptly named after it won by storming through competition just like this iconic instrument does with melodies. The Greek Pavilion at the Universal Exhibition of 1900 in Paris featured displays showcasing various cultural artifacts from around the world - including a representation of this quintessential Russian instrument: The Balalaika. Whether used for entertainment or as decorative pieces such as stained oak carved trompe l'oeil chairs from late 19th-century Russia; one thing remains clear –the allure and charm surrounding these captivating instruments continue to resonate throughout time.