This unique pysanka is a stunning example of the salted dough technique, a specialized approach that introduces sculptural depth to traditional egg decoration. Unlike the wax-resist method typically used in pysanka-making, this technique involves meticulously shaping a pliable mixture of flour, salt, and water into intricate forms before baking them onto the egg’s surface. This process creates a three-dimensional effect, making each piece a tactile work of art. Once hardened, the design is carefully painted and sealed, ensuring both durability and aesthetic brilliance.
The pysanka showcases a whimsical rural scene, with a quaint thatched-roof house as its focal point. The house is sculpted in delicate dough appliqué, its roof featuring fine-textured strands that mimic the look of hand-bound straw. A tiny, flower-adorned window sits at the center of the facade, framed by intricately patterned white detailing that resembles embroidered fabric. Sculpted accents around the house enhance its rustic charm, evoking the cozy, folk-art style often seen in Ukrainian village motifs.
The reverse side of the pysanka reveals an enchanting garden scene. Two small bluebirds perch among stylized trees, their dark, textured leaves adorned with fine painted details. The trees rise from a lush green landscape, speckled with tiny white and yellow flowers, giving the scene a magical, storybook-like quality. Sculpted floral and wooden elements wrap around the design, further enhancing its dimensionality. The deep purple background contrasts beautifully with the warm, earthy greens and browns, creating a rich and harmonious composition.
A soft green ribbon loops through the top of the pysanka, adding an elegant finishing touch while allowing for easy display. This remarkable piece blends folk tradition with sculptural artistry, celebrating Ukrainian heritage through intricate craftsmanship and exquisite detail.
Bio
The artists are a husband and wife duo, both of whom are elderly, with deteriorating sight. Both have been pysanky writers for over 35 years. They are located in Ukraine
Technique
The salted dough technique used in pysanky involves sculpting intricate designs onto eggs using a homemade salt dough mixture. The dough is typically made from a simple blend of flour, salt, and water, which is kneaded until smooth and pliable. It is then shaped into delicate patterns, such as floral motifs or geometric designs, and carefully applied to the surface of the egg.
Once the design is complete, the decorated egg is baked at a low temperature to harden the dough. This process can take several hours, ensuring that the dough fully dries without cracking. After hardening, the egg can be painted or sealed with varnish to enhance its longevity and aesthetic appeal.
This technique allows for remarkable texture and dimension, setting it apart from traditional wax-resist pysanky. The process is highly detailed and labor-intensive, requiring careful handcrafting at every stage to achieve the final intricate result
All pysanky sales are final!
Type: Goose egg shell; fully emptied and thermally processed. Written using the salted dough technique
Delivery: All pysanky purchases are to be collected in person at Southcentre Mall prior to 6:00 PM on Sunday, April 27. All pysanky purchased but not collected will be shipped at the purchaser's cost using standard shipping rates. Purchasers will be responsible for taxes, duties, and all other shipping-related costs. Purchasers outside Alberta will be contacted with delivery instructions after their purchase is confirmed.
