Vintage Ukrainian Pysanky Chicken Egg Hand Made Christmas Seasons Ornament XMAS

Description: This is an authentic hand made chicken egg, painted in the traditional manner of an deer against a blue background with the seasons on four sides of the egg. The year 2001 is marked at the top of the egg. Egg painted by Chicago based Ukrainian artist Susie Cook The hand painted lines are evident when viewed up close - it really is an amazing piece of art.An ornament hanger has been glued to the top of this egg so that it can do double-duty as a Christmas ornament. Take a look at the rest of the eggs we have for sale - I'll be putting them all up over the next few days - they're gorgeous. I have never seen a lot of eggs this beautiful. Our Egg Collection Pysanky eggs (also spelled pysanka for singular) are intricately decorated Easter eggs, traditionally made using a wax-resist (batik) method. The art form is closely associated with Ukrainian culture, although variations can be found across Eastern Europe. Here’s a deeper look at their history, symbolism, and creation process:History and Origins:Pysanky come from the word "pysaty," meaning "to write" or "to inscribe" in Ukrainian, referencing the method of writing or drawing patterns on the eggs with wax.The tradition of decorating eggs dates back to pre-Christian times, when the eggs were symbols of life, fertility, and rebirth. With the spread of Christianity, pysanky became linked to Easter, representing the resurrection of Christ and new beginnings.These eggs were often given as gifts to family members, friends, or loved ones as blessings of good fortune, health, and protection.Creation Process:Pysanky are created using a wax-resist technique. This method involves covering the parts of the egg's surface with wax to protect them from being dyed in certain colors.Start with a clean, raw egg, often a chicken or goose egg. The designs are drawn on the shell with a stylus (kistka), which applies melted beeswax in fine lines.The egg is dipped into successive dye baths, starting with the lightest color (usually yellow) and progressing to darker shades (reds, blues, and black).After each dye bath, more wax is applied to preserve sections of the design.Once the final color is applied, the wax is melted off to reveal the multi-colored design underneath.Some eggs are left raw inside to dry out over time, while others may be blown out to remove the contents.Symbolism: Each part of a pysanka—from its colors to the motifs—carries specific meaning:Colors:Red: Love, passion, and the sun.Yellow: Light, youth, and happiness.Green: Renewal, spring, and nature.Black: Respect for the dead or eternity.White: Purity and innocence.Design Motifs:Geometric patterns like triangles, diamonds, or stars often represent elements of nature or the cycle of life.Animal motifs such as birds (symbolizing fertility or the soul), deer (strength), and fish (Christianity) are common.Plant motifs like wheat, flowers, or trees often represent growth, health, and rebirth.Regional Variations: Though pysanky are most closely associated with Ukraine, similar traditions exist in Poland (Pisanki), Lithuania (Margučiai), Hungary, and other Eastern European cultures, each with unique patterns and techniques.Modern Day Usage:Today, pysanky are still made as part of Easter celebrations, but they are also created year-round as artistic pieces.Many people use wooden eggs or other materials instead of traditional chicken eggs, especially for decorative purposes or to preserve the art form longer.Pysanky workshops and festivals are held worldwide, often among Ukrainian diaspora communities, to pass on the tradition to new generations and keep the cultural heritage alive.Cultural Importance: Pysanky eggs are more than just decorative—they carry deep cultural and spiritual significance. They have survived as a symbol of Ukrainian identity, even through periods of oppression when cultural practices were suppressed. The intricate designs and the patience required to create pysanky make them a beloved folk art form, cherished for their beauty and symbolism. In summary, pysanky eggs are a timeless expression of art, faith, and tradition, embodying centuries-old meanings through the simple yet meticulous decoration of eggs.

Price: 19.99 USD

Location: Palos Heights, Illinois

End Time: 2024-12-30T20:54:56.000Z

Shipping Cost: 11 USD