Ukrainian Pysanky (Easter Eggs)
Symbolism of Color

Ukrainian Pysanky (Easter Eggs)

The colors on Ukrainian Pysanky (Easter Eggs) hold special significance. Colors for eggs to be given to certain individuals or for special purposes were carefully chosen. Pysanky with bright colors were given to children whose life had just begun symbolizing their birth. Pysanky with white were given to older children whose adult life had just begun symbolizing their innocence. Dark colors were given to older persons whose life was fullfilled symbolizing death.
YELLOW - The color of the moon and stars, the symbol of light and purity. It signified youth, love, wisdom, recognition, reward, and the harvest. It was the color consecrated to the deities of light.

ORANGE - The symbol of endurance and strength. Orange the color of a flame represented passion, strength, endurance and ambition tempered by the yellow of wisdom. It was also the symbol of the eternal sun.

GREEN - The first sign of spring, the color of fertility, health, innocence, and hopefulness.

RED - The magical color of folklore signifying action, charity, happiness, hope, passion, and spiritual awakening. It also represented the sun and the joy of life and love. Pysanky with red fields or motifs are often given to children.

BLACK - The darkest time before dawn, it represented constancy or eternity and remebrance. It also signified death, fear, and ignorance. Black and white pysanky showed respect for souls of the dead. Black in opposition to red signified ignorance arising from passions. Black in opposition to white signified ignorance of mind.

BROWN - Represented Mother Earth, her mountains, her harvests, her bountiful gifts, and happiness.

BLUE - Represented blue skies or the air, and good health.

WHITE - Usually the color of the egg, signified purity, innocence and birth.

PURPLE - Represented fasting, faith, trust, and patience.