July - 2014

Motanky dolls

Motanky dolls

Motanky dolls, also known as knot dolls, in Ukrainian culture are known as an ancient amulet. From the olden times this national Ukrainian doll has played the part of a guardian in each family. The doll symbolizes women’s wisdom, the Mother figure, and the unbreakable connection between generations. For thousands and thousands of years this doll has been considered the guardian symbol of a family. Making a doll, a woman is supposed to invest her energy, positive thoughts, and

Prysyadka treasure

Prysyadka treasure

Do you ever wonder how far back Ukrainian folk dance goes? Well, here's just an idea! The silver figurine of a dancer from the Martynivske treasure, found in 1909 in the village of Martynivka, Cherkasy region, roughly dates back to the 6th century BC. The figurine reminds of a dancer performing a Ukrainian dance element "prysyadka". Notice how the dancer's shirt has geometric crossed lines, similar to Ukrainian 'vyshyttia' or embroidery? Presently the figurine is stored

Korali

Korali

Ukrainian ‘Korali’ AKA ‘Namysto’ or simply a necklace, is probably the most common women’s jewelry in Ukraine. Ukrainian necklaces came in different colors, shapes, materials, and even in ways of wearing them. Necklaces made from expensive natural materials, like coral, amber, pearls, garnets, glass and glazes were considered the most valuable ones. In some parts of Western Ukraine there was an archaic tradition of wearing necklaces made from shrub ‘beads’, called klokichka.

Boots

Boots

We all know and love red boots, but did you know this about the history of this intergral attribute of Ukrainian Culture & Tradition? Turns out Red Boots weren't as typical for Ukrainians as we thought! Well, at least not all Ukrainians! Yellow, black or even green boots were far more widespread than red boots. Red boots were always a sign of wealth! They were also very symbolic. Red boots were often used in rituals. For example, men were supposed to give their loved ones a p

Wreath of Hope

Wreath of Hope

According to numerous rules twelve flowers and herbs should be woven into the wreath - mallow, viburnum, immortelle, yarrow, forget-me-nots, marigolds, periwinkle, lovage, cornflower, daisy, poppy and hops, each symbolizing something. Each color of the ribbons decorating wreath, also had its own meaning. For example, green was the symbol of beauty and youth, purple stood for wisdom, crimson symbolized sincerity and cordiality and pink - the girl's rich dowry. In addition, the