Plant ornaments in Ukrainian embroidery

Plant ornament is a stylistic transformation of images of various plants with the help of curved and straight lines, with the use of rhythmic repetition of geometric elements, which demonstrates the diversity of Ukrainian nature on fabric.

The decoration of clothes with plant ornaments dates back to ancient times. For our ancestors, embroidery had a sacred character, was a talisman and a certain symbol depending on what was embroidered.

It was possible to see plant ornament in the culture of the Scythians and other peoples more than a thousand years ago. However, it is believed that the history of Ukrainian flower ornament originates in Trypil culture. The famous scientist-archaeologist Vikentiy Khvoyka found traces of the Trypil culture in the village of Trypillya, in the Kyiv region. Beautifully embroidered clothes were also found among the various objects of that time.

The meaning of floral ornaments in embroidery

First of all, it is important to note that each separate region of Ukraine has its own traditions of using colors and ornaments on embroidery. Different patterns, techniques and color schemes are used, but the meaning of the symbols and the color of the shirt fabric itself remains the same for all regions.

Embroidery color

The color of the shirt on which the floral ornament will be embroidered is important:

• White - this color is most often used for sewing shirts, because it is a symbol of youth, purity and health. Even in modern Ukraine, the white color of embroidery is found most often.

• Black - it is worth noting that black fabric was mostly used for sewing men's embroidered shirts. This color was characteristic of pessimists, elderly men, in the worst case, the deceased was dressed in this shirt.

• Blue is a color intended for older women, sometimes young girls also sew embroidered dresses in this color scheme, choosing fresher colors - blue or sky. The blue color was also used for men's clothing, usually with red Ukrainian floral and geometric patterns that symbolized energy and activity.

• Red is a symbol of youth, energy, love and passion.

Just like the color of the embroidery, the floral ornament in the embroidery has the same meaning in all regions of Ukraine!

An oak branch and its leaves

Oak was the sacred tree of God Perun, which symbolized male energy, vitality and active development. In practice, the images of such plant ornaments were mostly used on embroidery for young women and girls.

Viburnum cluster

The viburnum is a symbol of the Ukrainian people, so it is not at all surprising that it was also reflected in the floral ornament.

The name "viburnum" came fr om the ancient Slavic word "circle", that's how our ancestors called the Sun. In ancient times, the viburnum was a symbol of the fiery trinity - the Sun, the Moon and the stars.

The viburnum ornament is made with an emphasis on red berries and is often combined with oak branches or leaves. The red color of viburnum symbolizes the blood and immortality of the Ukrainian people. This ornament gives a person health, strength and beauty.

Poppy flowers

Poppy is a reliable protector of a person, his family and household from troubles and evil spirits. This Ukrainian floral ornament also bears witness to the memory of fallen soldiers who fought for the freedom of the Ukrainian people. You can also see such embroidery on young Ukrainian girls, which indicates that there is a fallen hero in the family, whose memory will live forever.

Grapes

The floral ornament of a bunch of grapes with leaves is a symbol of family happiness and well-being, and can also be associated with the arrival of a new family member. Such a pattern represents a man as a good family man, and a woman as a protector of the family tree.

Grapes can be seen both on embroidery (mostly in Kyiv region and Poltava region) and on embroidered towels (Chernihiv region).

Mallow flowers

Mallow, as a Ukrainian floral ornament, has existed not so long ago. Therefore, it does not yet seem possible to say that it has any specific symbolism. For the most part, this ornament is used exclusively for decorative purposes.

Lily flowers with leaves and buds

Another Ukrainian floral ornament, which not only impresses with its beauty, but also has a wide symbolism. Lily shows purity, innocence and girlish charm. Often this flower is depicted with leaves and buds, which symbolizes the stages of human existence and the continuity of life.

Lilies with a cross can also be seen on wedding towels, showing a blessing for a happy and long-lasting marriage. A drop of dew can indicate a woman's pregnancy.

Perineum

This floral ornament was used on shirts for young people. Periwinkle is a symbol of youth, development and achieving high goals. It can also be found on wedding towels. An interesting fact is that the periwinkle is a curling plant, and in Ukrainian culture the word "curling" in relation to the brides meant readiness for marriage.

Tree of Life

It is a symbol of the universe, the connection of all generations, the interweaving of the past, present and future. Such plant ornaments were a symbol of the universe.

Plant ornaments in Ukrainian decorations and decorations

Plant ornaments are widely used not only in embroidery, but also in jewelry and decorative elements. The symbolism of a certain plant is preserved, regardless of wh ere exactly it was depicted.

Since ancient times, Ukrainian girls have woven flowers into their hair and worn wreaths. Subsequently, this tradition did not leave the Ukrainian people, but rather spread. Today, you can find many hair ornaments with ethnic elements of Ukrainian culture.

Below are some examples of plants used in decorations:

• Poppy - emphasized the beauty and youth of the girl, protecting her family from misfortune.
• A rose is a symbol of a girl's solemn, special beauty, her supremacy.
• Cornflowers - speak of modesty and tenderness of the owner.
• Chamomile - symbolizes pure love, marital devotion.
• Apple or cherry blossom - maternal love and devotion.
• Willow is a symbol of purification and water.

Floral ornament was also used to decorate dishes and other decorative elements. Nowadays, you can still find household items with ornaments on store shelves.

Importance of floral ornaments in embroidery

Plant ornament in embroidery has become an integral part of Ukrainian culture, having sacred and religious value for us and our ancestors.

Believing in the traditions of one's people is an important component of preserving cultural values and rituals. The use of floral ornament in embroidery means to believe in the power of the Ukrainian spirit, the indomitability of the Ukrainian people, the happy future of our country and belonging to the Ukrainian family.