Day 31 of 365 of Photo Year

Wycinanki, pronouced (Vee-chee-non-key), are Polish decorative paper cut-outs which are regarded by many as the most beautiful in the world. The Wycinandi shown here were made by hand in Poland with sheepshearing scissors. They were used to decorate the walls of ceiling beams in countryside cottages and given as gifts to family members and friends. The colorful cut-outs of flowers, circles and stars with a symmetrical arrangement reflect a particularly high level of artistry. In addition to the multi-colored cut-outs of peacocks, roosters and other birds, wycinanki are to depict scenes of special events. Wycinanki were traditionally cut as a form of relaxation in rural areas of Poland after the chores of the day were completed. This folk art was passed down from generation and, as it developed, became quite competitive in Polish towns and villages. New themes and ideas were created as the artwork became more detailed and intricate. The decorative cut-outs became popular throughout Poland in the middle of the 19th century, and remain a treasured form of Polish folk art.