Motanka
Traditional Ukrainian Doll
According to historians, Motanka dolls appeared in Ukraine several thousand years ago, dating back to
ancient
Trypillia
times. Our ancestors believed that natural threads and materials used to create these dolls are magical and
protect the
family from evil spirits.
The Motanka doll is faceless; the cross symbolizes the unity of heaven and earth, four cardinal points, four
seasons,
and the sun. The doll is an amulet, so it cannot have a human appearance, protects its owner(s), and brings
fertility to
the homestead.
These dolls are usually made of natural materials such as hay, straw, wood, herbs, dry leaves, grains, seeds
and
are
filled with fragrant herbs and decorated with traditional ornaments and embroidery.
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