Egg, Easter
Object number2004.146.11
Artist
Helen Timo
MediumShell
Credit LineGift of Timo Family
DescriptionLarge purple white and green Pysanky egg decorated using the wax resist method with sheaves of wheat in geometric patterns.Dimensions3 in. (7.6 cm)Label TextThe word Pysanky is derived from a Ukranian word meaning “to write.” Traditionally decorated Pysanky eggs are made during the last week of Lent, the Holy Week in the Orthodox Church. After the eggs are emptied, they are decorated using a wax resist method. The decorator uses a kiska, which has a hollow opening and a handle, to melt and draw with the wax. After each application of wax, the decorator dips the egg in a dye bath and continues drawing on the egg with wax. At the end, the wax is melted from the egg and the decoration appears. The colors and the designs that are created from the wax and the dyeing have many religiously symbolic meanings. These eggs were made by Helen Timo in America.
Terms
On View
On view
Helen Timo
Helen Timo
Helen Timo