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The art of making Ukrainian Pysanky is both ancient and mystical. The art form can be traced back to Pre-
Christian times with pagan symbolism and simple designs. Pysanky are made by writing with bees wax on an egg shell with
a tool called a kistka. Hot wax is first applied to a white egg in an effort to preserve areas to remain white. The egg is then
dipped into a permanent dye color, traditionally yellow is next. Then hot wax is applied to the areas that are to remain
yellow. The process repeats itself with each new color progressing from lightest to darkest, with black generally being the
final color. The wax is then melted off the egg to reveal the finished design.

Pysanky are rich with symbolism and meaning. Each symbol and color has a meaning, and can be linked together
to tell a story or to bestow good wishes to whomever receives the egg. Early egg designs reflected pagan rituals and beliefs,
and often celebrated spring, birth, the sun, life, death, and mother earth. Many of today's symbols are the same, but they
have taken on a more Christian tone and often celebrate Easter, the Resurection, and the life of Christ. Eggs were often used
as a talisman to ward off evil spirits and to grant the owner protection from harm, and a bountiful and prosperous harvest.
Some also believe that Pysanky are the keys to the gates of heaven, and place them in the coffins of deceased loved ones to
ensure their entrance into heaven.

Here are some examples of the meanings of color and symbols found on traditional pysanky.

White=purity, innocence, and

Yellow=light, youth, happiness

Orange=strength, endurance, the eternal sun

Red=happiness, hope passion

Blue=sky, good health

Green=spring, new growth, hope

Black=eternity, darkest time before dawn

Sun and stars= life, fortune, growthPoppies= National flower of the Ukraine.

Diamonds= knowledge

Ladders=prosperity, prayer

Crosses=Christ, crucifiction

Pine needles= health, stamina

Wheat = good health and harvest

Nets = Christ as a fisher of men

Fish = Christianity

Triangles = Blessed Trinity, or air, fire, and water

Chicken/Rooster = fertility

Dots = Mary's tears

Deer = Wealth and prosperity

Roses = Love, caring, Christ

Bands eternity

Design themes and intricacy vary based on the different regions of the Ukraine