Russian Ornaments
Russian ornaments, at their earliest, were influenced by German
designs, and were predominantly glass, paper mache, or
cardboard. Originally, Russian ornaments were symbols of good
harvest, prosperity, health, a happy life, and the continuation
of the family. So rather than being just "funny" or "nice
pieces," the themes of the ornaments were meant to convey the
meaning of old traditions. Some of the most popular subjects
were fruits and vegetables, farm animals, and people (boys and
girls, dancers, babies, hockey players, and occupations). Many
Russian ornaments had a military theme: soldiers, warriors, the
Soviet star, dirigible, and the hammer and sickle. After the
Revolution of 1917, Christmas was officially banned, with the
prohibition lasting until about 1935 when the New Year's tree
was revived for the children, and celebrated with Soviet
ornaments and decorations. Ornaments of a religious nature were
not allowed, but ornaments that could be used as toys or candy
containers were available. Clocks were an important and popular
decoration, with the hands always pointing to a few minutes
before midnight, honoring the New Year's celebration.
Many Russian ornaments have their origin in Russian legends and
fairy tales, and some ornaments have a historical significance.
Better known simply as Ivan and the Firebird, this 1930s
ornament is taken from the story, "The Tale of Ivan Tsarevich,
the Firebird, and the Wolf" -- the story of a mighty tsar with a
magnificent orchard, and a firebird with golden feathers that
would swoop down each night and fly off with a few of his
apples. It's a magical story of searching for the firebird with
a very helpful wolf, and is packed with life lessons, and has a
happy ending. The round, glass ornament shown was made just
after World War II when cars were a luxury item and the War had
just been won. Production on the car, named the "Victory,"
began in 1946, and this hand painted ornament, using the model
of that car, was available the following year. Although
occasionally crudely constructed, Russian ornaments almost
always tell a story, or give us new insight into the lives of
the Russian people. They make a wonderful addition to any
antique Christmas ornament collection.
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