Vintage Russian Kargopol Clay Rider Figurine – Hand-Painted Folk Art Toy, Red Jacket (c.1970s)

A beautiful and unusual vintage Russian Kargopol handmade and hand-painted clay folk art figurine, full of rustic charm and individuality.

This striking figure depicts a bearded man in a red jacket astride a white horse, painted in bold black, red, and ochre tones typical of Kargopol toys. The simplicity of form and vivid decoration perfectly capture the character of traditional northern Russian folk art.

The Kargopol clay toy tradition began in the 19th century around the town of Kargopol in Arkhangelsk Oblast, where local potters created small, expressive figures of people and animals in their spare time. The craft nearly disappeared in the 1930s but was revived in the 1950s by the talented artist Ulyana Babkina, whose work brought renewed appreciation for these distinctive toys.

This vintage example, made in the mid to late 20th century, is a fine piece of Russian folk heritage — charming, tactile, and full of personality.

Details:

• Origin: Kargopol, Russia

• Date: circa 1970s

• Material: Painted clay

• Size: approx. 14 cm tall × 12 cm long

• Condition: Very good vintage condition with light surface wear typical of handmade folk pieces

• Price: £42