SHANGRALA'S
PYSANKY
EASTER
EGGS!
A pysanky is a Ukrainian decorated egg.
Pysanky is a Ukrainian word, created from a verb pysaty ('to write').
These beautiful works of art are made by the wax batik method and are made as decoration, not to eat. A small hole is usually made at both ends of the egg and the contents are blown out before the design is written on to the egg with an instrument called a kystka. The kystka is a pen that writes with melted beeswax. Beeswax is used because it has a high melting point which makes it easier to get even lines that will not smear.
This ancient method of decorating eggs was in practice well before the time of Christ. Peasants believed that great power is embodied in the egg and they decorated eggs in the spring to celebrate the warming of the sun as it brought new joy and vigor to life.
With the introduction of Christianity to the Ukraine in 988 AD, the ancient customs were absorbed into the Christian celebration known as Easter.
The different designs on pysanky have special symbolic meanings. For example, flowers symbolize love, charity and good will. Wheat symbolizes good health and wishes for a bountiful harvest.
Storks, chicks, hens and roosters all symbolize fertility and fulfillment of wishes. Birds are not depicted flying but always at rest. Deer and horses symbolize a wish for good health, wealth and prosperity.
The batik method is done by writing on the egg in beeswax then dipping the egg in yellow dye first. The egg is left in the dye for approximately 10 minutes. Wherever wax is applied to the yellow egg, those areas remain yellow in the final design. The egg is then dipped into consecutively darker colors, ending in black. Wax is applied between each color to designate the color that will show at the end as you cover that color with wax.
After the last of the wax is applied and the egg is dipped into the black dye, it is patted dry and the most exciting time is at hand. The unveiling of the finished pysanky! The wax is melted off by holding the egg over a candle and the wax wiped away with a clean soft cloth to reveal your masterpiece! The eggs are then covered with a clear gloss varnish and allowed to dry.
Here are some beautiful pysanky Easter eggs Enjoy :)
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BLESSED, HAPPY EASTER! :)
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