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“НАШЕ ЖИТТЯ”, КВІТЕНЬ 201 2 WWW. UNWLA.ORG 31 The design on this pysanka is known as the “ rake, ” and indeed, it r e- sembles the tool used in gardening. It’ s an ancient symbol found on r i- tual vessels excavated by archeologists, and it stands for rain and life - giving waters. This geometric design is called “ forty - eight wedges. ” There is an old b e- lief that one can make 48 wishes, and in order for them to come true, one has to connect all the lines on this pysanka as perfectly as one can. This seemingly simple de sign, calle d the “Gypsy’ s roads, ” is extremely difficult to trace out accurately, which gave rise to a belief that only the most highly skilled artist could write this pysanka . According to one folk legend, w hen the devil finds himself on “ Gyp sy’ s roads, ” he will wander there f orever, unable to get out. That’ s why this pysanka was believed to have protective powers, keeping the evil spirits away from its owner. The design on this pysanka has the same name as a spring folk dance — “ the meandering dance. ” The line that twists and turns has no begi n- ning and no end, just like the spring dance which girls still do som e- times around Easter. This design needs no special explanation: the cross is the universal Christian symbol of the Savior’ s death and Resurrection. Such pysanky were frequently exchanged as Easter gifts and were believed to bring blessing and protection. All photos by Mariya Ivanyshyn
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