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«Kryzhma»

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Series "On this side of the past". Cardboard, oil, 100 x 150 cm, 2026 y.

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1500 Euros

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At first glance, this photograph seems to depict an ordinary day — harvest time.  But this scene is so rich in symbolism that it takes on a special, sacred meaning. Three generations, like a chain of time, from the beginning to wisdom. The rich soil nourishes her children, just like a mother. The lush grasses sway, like the restless waves of life. The midday sun rises above the mother’s head, bringing a quiet joy. And all of this together seems to be wrapped in a white kryzhma, in which an infant lies — as if the soul can feel the gentle touch of God’s presence.

The kryzhma is a sacred white cloth in which the child is wrapped immediately after being immersed in holy water during the sacrament of baptism. It is preserved as a relic — a reminder of the child’s first steps toward faith and spiritual life. The chrisma symbolizes purity, cleansing from sins, and spiritual rebirth. It is a talisman and a symbol of God’s blessing. It is a symbol of faith and spiritual heritage.

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Thank you for the photo to the group “Історія України в ретро світлинах,” which is a never-ending source of inspiration for me personally. 
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCCKlu6Ma4i/?igsh=MW5rZmJpdTE2bjVx. Caption: Photo from a village on the outskirts of Lviv, 1910s

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And also to the group “Київщина: сторінки історії,” where I found a very rare photo of a kryzhma. 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CsKQ8d6nC/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Caption: Kyiv Region. Samhorodok. Kryzhma. Early 20th century. Photographer: Ivan Melnikov

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