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48-476: Ašvieniai are represented as pulling a carriage of Saulė (the Sun) through the sky. Ašvieniai, depicted as žirgeliai or little horses, are common motifs on Lithuanian rooftops, placed for protection of the house. Similar motifs can also be found on beehives, harnesses, bed frames, and other household objects. Ašvieniai are related to Lithuanian Ūsinis and Latvian Ūsiņš ( cf. Vedic Ushas ), gods of horses. Usins, one of

96-535: A diadem , with thin metal leaves being attached to an ornamental band. Wreaths also appear stamped into Etruscan medallions. The plants shown making the wreaths in Etruscan jewelry include ivy, oak, olive leaves, myrtle, laurel, wheat and vines. Wreaths were worn as crowns by Etruscan rulers. The Etruscan symbolism continued to be used in Ancient Greece and Rome. Roman magistrates also wore golden wreaths as crowns, as

144-466: A custom that is sometimes done liturgically, through a hanging of the greens ceremony. The Advent wreath was first used by Lutherans in Germany in the 16th century, and in 1839, Lutheran priest Johann Hinrich Wichern used a wreath made from a cart wheel to educate children about the meaning and purpose of Christmas , as well as to help them count its approach, thus giving rise to the modern version of

192-412: A design used in ancient times in southern Europe . The most well-known are pieces of Etruscan civilization jewelry, made of gold or other precious metals. Symbols from Greek myths often appear in the designs, embossed in precious metal at the ends of the wreath. Ancient Roman writers referred to Etruscan corona sutilis , which were wreaths with their leaves sewn onto a background. These wreaths resemble

240-444: A fruitful harvest in the coming year. In recent years, wreaths have experienced a significant surge in popularity as versatile home decor items. No longer confined to seasonal displays or special occasions, wreaths are now commonly used year-round to enhance interior and exterior spaces. From vibrant floral wreaths adorning front doors to minimalist greenery wreaths adorning walls, their versatility and customizable nature have captured

288-509: A golden or a fiery color. The sun's steeds are also portrayed as having hooves and bridles of gold in the dainas , and as golden beings themselves or of a bay colour, "reflect[ing] the hues of the bright or the twilight sky". When she begins her nocturnal journey through the World Sea, her chariot changes into a boat and "the Sun swims her horses", which signifies that "she stops to wash her horses in

336-567: A long history of observing Saint Lucy's Day (St. Lucia's Day). "St. Lucia's crowns", made of a brass wreath holding candles, are part of the customs associated with this holiday. A wreath laying ceremony is a traditional practice during which funeral wreaths are laid at a grave or memorial site. It is done as a formal sign of respect towards a particular tribute (e.g. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ). These are formal ceremonies that involve high ranking dignitaries such as heads of state . Once

384-452: A long-standing tradition. Olive wreath was the prize for the winner at the ancient Olympic Games . In Christianity , wreaths are used to observe the Advent season, in preparation for Christmastide and Epiphanytide , as well as to celebrate the latter two liturgical seasons . These wreaths, as with other Advent and Christmas decorations, are often set up on the first Sunday of Advent ,

432-493: A man named Joseph becomes fascinated with Aušrinė appearing in the sky and goes on a quest to find the "second sun", who is actually a maiden that lives on an island in the sea and has the same hair like the Sun. In the Baltic folklore, Saulė is said to live in a silver gated castle at the end of the sea, located somewhere in the east, or to go to an island in the middle of the sea for her nocturnal rest. In folksongs, Saule sinks into

480-496: A myth about the kidnapped Saulė. She was held in a tower by a powerful king and rescued by the zodiac ( Signa Zodiaci ) using a giant sledgehammer. Jerome swore that he personally witnessed the hammer, venerated by the locals. Saulė and Mėnuo/ Mēness (the Moon) were wife and husband. Mėnuo fell in love with Aušrinė (the morning star or Venus ). For his infidelity, Perkūnas (thunder god) punished Mėnuo. There are different accounts of

528-470: A prayer for protection and blessing upon the growing harvest." The symbolism of wreaths has been used at funerals since at least the time of Ancient Greece, to represent a circle of eternal life. Evergreen wreaths were laid at the burial place of early Christian virgin martyrs in Europe, the evergreen representing the victory of the eternal spirit over death. In early modern England, a wreath custom existed for

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576-460: A rose wreath and a rose in bloom due to their circular shapes. Saulė is portrayed dancing in her gilded shoes on a silver hill and her fellow Baltic goddess Aušrinė is said to dance on a stone for the people on the first day of summer. In Lithuania, the Sun (identified as female) rides a car towards her husband, the Moon, "dancing and emitting fiery sparks" on the way. In a myth from Lithuania ,

624-458: A symbolic testament to their lineage back to Rome's early Etruscan rulers. Roman magistrates also used several other prominent Etruscan symbols in addition to a golden wreath crown: fasces , a curule chair, a purple toga , and an ivory rod. In the Greco-Roman world , wreaths were used as an adornment that could represent a person's occupation, rank, their achievements and status. The wreath that

672-481: A term coined in the World War II era, which was decorated with fringe and embroidered to commemorate life and sacrifice. This practice is still in place today, and wreath sashes now commonly adorn doors of homes to celebrate numerous holidays. Harvest wreaths, a common household decoration today, are a custom with ancient roots in Europe. The creation of harvest wreaths in Europe can be traced back to ancient times, and

720-531: A wreath is laid, the person who lays the wreath goes a few steps back to bow/salute the memorial. During wreath laying ceremonies of a military nature, bugle calls such as " Last Post ", " Taps ", or " Sunset " are played. In the Netherlands, wreath laying ( Dutch : Kranslegging ) is usually held during the National Remembrance Day celebrations on 4 May. During state visits, a wreath is laid out at

768-619: Is a solar goddess , the common Baltic solar deity in the Lithuanian and Latvian mythologies . The noun Saulė / Saule in the Lithuanian and Latvian languages is also the conventional name for the Sun and originates from the Proto-Baltic name * Sauliā > * Saulē . Saulė is one of the most powerful deities, the goddess of the sun itself, responsible for all life on Earth. She is the patroness of

816-423: Is also depicted in a silver, gold or silk costume and wearing a sparkling crown. She is sometimes portrayed as waking up "red" ( sārta ) or "in a red tree" during the morning. Saule is also said to own golden tools and garments: slippers, scarf, belt, and a golden boat she uses as her means of transportation. Other accounts ascribe her golden rings, golden ribbons, golden tassels, and even a golden crown. Saule

864-457: Is also described as being dressed in clothes woven with "threads of red, gold, silver and white". In the Lithuanian tradition, the sun is also described as a "golden wheel" or a "golden circle" that rolls down the mountain at sunset. Also in Latvian riddles and songs, Saule is associated with the color red as if to indicate the "fiery aspect" of the sun: the setting and the rising sun are equated with

912-409: Is associated with animistic spiritual beliefs. In Ancient Greece, the harvest wreath was a sacred amulet, using wheat or other harvested plants, woven together with red and white wool thread. The harvest wreath would be hung by the door year-round. Harvest wreaths were an important symbol to the community in Ancient Greece, not merely to the farmer and his family. The festivals devoted to Dionysus ,

960-444: Is constructed to form a ring shape. In English-speaking countries, wreaths are used typically as household ornaments, most commonly as an Advent and Christmas decoration . They are also used in ceremonial events in many cultures around the globe. They can be worn as a chaplet around the head, or as a garland around the neck. The word wreath comes from Middle English wrethe and from Old English writha 'band'. Wreaths were

1008-565: Is depicted as a daughter and servant of Saulė. Aušrinė lights the fire for Saulė and makes her ready for another day's journey across the sky. Vakarinė (the evening star) makes the bed for Saulė in the evening. In the Lithuanian mythology, Saulė was mother of other planets: Indraja ( Jupiter ), Sėlija ( Saturn ), Žiezdrė ( Mars ), Vaivora ( Mercury ). Saulė's feast was celebrated during the summer solstice . Lithuanian Rasos (turned into Saint Jonas' Festival by Christianity) and Latvian Līgo (turned into Jāņi ) involve making wreaths , looking for

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1056-437: Is followed with a celebration and feast. A wreath may be used as a headdress made from leaves, flowers and branches. It is typically worn in festive occasions and on holy days. Wreaths originally were made for use with pagan rituals in Europe, and were associated with the changing seasons and fertility. Christianity appropriated the symbolism of the wreath based upon its Roman association with honour and moral virtue. During

1104-480: Is the reason why the sun takes time to rise. In other folksongs, the personified female Sun is also associated with the color "white" ( Latv balt- ), such as the imagery of a white shirt, the expression "mīļā, balte" ("Sun, dear, white"), and the description of the trajectory of the sun (red as it rises, white as it journeys on its way). Wreath A wreath ( / r iː θ / ) is an assortment of flowers , leaves , fruits , twigs , or various materials that

1152-629: The Midsummer wreath had to be picked early in the morning before the dew had dried; the belief was that once the dew dried, the magical properties of the plants evaporated with the dew. Midsummer celebrations are still observed in Germany and Scandinavia as well, with Maypoles and wreaths playing a prominent role, similar to England. By the Renaissance period, wreaths became symbols of political and religious alliances in England. Protestant reformers such as

1200-511: The Oschophoria and Anthesteria , included a ritual procession called the eiresîonê . A harvest wreath was carried to Pyanopsia and Thargelia by young boys, who would sing during the journey. The laurel or olive wreath would be hung at the door, and then offerings were made to Helios and the Hours. It was hoped that this ritual would bring protection against crop failure and plagues. In Poland,

1248-441: The catacombs " using a candle-lit wreath to "light her way and leave her hands free to carry as much food as possible"; as such, on this day, many young Christian girls dress as Saint Lucy, wearing a wreath on their head. Decorative wreaths originated in Ancient Greece, they were used to promote healthy crop harvests, it would be made from the previous years harvest (such as wheat) and would be hung on people's doors in hope for

1296-606: The coming of Christ , with the former being used to mark the beginning of the Christian Church's liturgical year and both serving as décor during Advent and Christmas festivities. While Advent wreaths are erected on stands or placed on tables, Christmas wreaths are often hung on doors or walls. Within Advent, the Church observes Saint Lucy's Day , the memorial of Saint Lucy , who is said to have brought "food and aid to Christians hiding in

1344-552: The Advent wreath. For every Sunday of Advent, starting with the fourth Sunday before Christmas, he would put a white candle in the wreath and for every day in between he would use a red candle. The use of the Advent wreath has since spread from the Lutheran Church to many Christian denominations , and some of these traditions, such as the Catholic Church and Moravian Church , have introduced unique variations to it. All of

1392-492: The Advent wreaths, however, have four candles, and many of them have a white candle in the centre, the Christ candle, which is lit on Christmas Day . Advent and Christmas wreaths are constructed of evergreens to represent everlasting life brought through Jesus and the circular shape of the wreath represents God, with no beginning and no end. Advent and Christmas wreaths are now a popular symbol in preparation for and to celebrate

1440-535: The Ašvieniai, is described as driving a solar chariot pulled across the sky by a pair of white horses. This Lithuania -related article is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . This article relating to a European folklore is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . This article about a legendary creature is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . Saul%C4%97 Saulė ( Lithuanian : Saulė , Latvian : Saule )

1488-533: The Middle Ages, Christian art featured depictions of the Virgin Mary and various saints crowned with wreaths, much as figures from Roman and Greek mythology were depicted wearing wreaths, as well as Roman and Greek rulers and heroes. Wreath customs in Europe have survived over many centuries. The observance of May Day in England includes Maypole festivities, culminating in a race by young unmarried men to climb to

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1536-793: The National Monument in Amsterdam . In Russia, it is tradition to lay wreaths at war memorials on Days of Military Honour and commemorative military holidays, such as Defender of the Fatherland Day and Victory Day . One of the more notable laying of wreaths takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow's Alexander Garden , where the President of Russia , the Prime Minister of Russia , members of

1584-558: The Puritans saw wreaths and the holidays they were associated with, such as May Day, as being pagan corrupting influences that destroyed healthy Christian morality. Soldiers confiscated wreaths in Oxford on May Day of 1648. During the Interregnum following the overthrow of Charles I of England , wreaths symbolized Royalist sympathies. In Bath, Somerset , the coronation of Charles II of England

1632-475: The Roman Catholic, Lutheran, and Anglican traditions) bless Corpus Christi wreaths that are made of flowers. Wreaths and bouquets are often "attached to flags and banners, to houses, and to the arches of green boughs that span the streets." In Christian homes, these wreaths are suspended on walls or displayed on doors and in windows. Corpus Christi wreaths are also "put up in gardens, fields, and pastures, with

1680-458: The Victorians. Wreaths are commonly laid at the tombs of soldiers and at memorial cenotaphs during Memorial Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies. Wreaths may also be laid in memory of persons lost at sea, either from an accident or due to navy action. In a memorial service at sea, the wreath is lowered to the water and set adrift. Funeral wreaths were also commonly adorned with a "wreath sash",

1728-467: The attention of interior designers and homeowners alike. The rise of do-it-yourself crafting and online marketplaces has also contributed to the accessibility of wreath-making materials and designs, allowing individuals to express their creativity and personalize their living spaces with these charming and visually appealing accents. On the eve of the Feast of Corpus Christi , Christian clergy (chiefly those from

1776-405: The bottom of a lake to sleep at night, in a silver cradle "in the white seafoam". Saulė also drives a carriage with copper wheels, a "gleaming copper chariot" or a golden chariot pulled by untiring horses or a "pretty little sleigh " ( kamaņiņa ) made of fish-bones. Saulė is also described as driving her shining car on the way to her husband, the Moon. In other accounts, she is said to sail

1824-679: The funerals of "young maidens". A young woman of the same age as the one being mourned would lead the funeral procession, carrying a wreath of white flowers to represent the purity of the deceased, and "that eternal crown of glory reserved for her in heaven". By the Victorian era, the symbolism of flowers had grown to become an elaborate language, and the symbolism of funeral wreaths was no exception. Flowers represented life and resurrection. Specific flowers were used in funeral wreaths to represent particular sentiments. Cypress and willow were used for crafting wreath frames, and were associated with mourning by

1872-468: The harvest wreath ( wieniec ) is a central symbol of the Harvest Festival, Dozynki . Wreaths are made of different shapes and sizes, using harvested grain plants, fruit and nuts. The wreath is then brought to a church for a blessing by a priest. The tradition includes a procession to the family home from the church, with a girl or young woman leading the procession and carrying the wreath. The procession

1920-533: The magical fern flower , burning bonfires, dancing around and leaping over the fire, and greeting the Sun when it rises at around 4 am next morning. It is the most joyous traditional holiday. The winter solstice is celebrated as the return of Saulė. Christianity absorbed Lithuanian Kūčios and Latvian Ziemassvētki into Christmas . Other celebrations took place around the equinoxes . In Latvian folk songs, Saule and her daughter(s) are dressed of shawls woven with gold thread and Saule wears shoes of gold. She

1968-594: The most commonly used symbols to address achievement throughout Greece and Rome. Laurel wreaths were used to crown victorious athletes at the original Olympic Games and are still worn in Italy by university students who just graduated. Other types of plants used to make wreath crowns also had symbolic meaning. For example, oak leaves symbolized wisdom, and were associated with Zeus , who according to Greek mythology made his decisions while resting in an oak grove. The Twelve Tables , dating to 450 BC, refer to funeral wreaths as

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2016-480: The punishment. One version has it that Mėnuo was cut into two pieces, but he did not learn from his mistakes and thus the punishment is repeated every month. Another version claims that Mėnuo and Saulė divorced, but both wanted to see their daughter Žemyna (earth). That is why the Sun shines during the day, while the Moon visits at night. A third version claims that the face of Mėnuo was disfigured by either Dievas (the supreme god) or Saulė. In other myths, Aušrinė

2064-439: The sea". Scholarship points that the expressions geltoni žirgeliai or dzelteni kumeliņi ('golden' or 'yellow horses'), which appear in Latvian dainas , seem to be a recurrent poetic motif. According to studies by professor Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga and ethnologue Nijolė Laurinkienė  [ lt ] , Saule is also depicted in folksongs as a "mother" (Lithuanian motinėlė , Latvian māmuliņa ) who comforts orphans, which

2112-527: The seas on a silver or a golden boat, which, according to legend, is what her chariot transforms into for her night travels. In a Latvian folksong, Saule hangs her sparkling crown on a tree in the evening and enters a golden boat to sail away. Saulė's horses are also mentioned in several pieces of Baltic folklore. Her horses are said to be of white color; in other accounts they amount to three steeds of golden, silver and diamond colors. In Latvian dainas (folk songs), her horses are described as yellow, of

2160-569: The top of the Maypole to capture the May Day wreath perched at the top of the pole. The winner of this contest would wear the wreath as his crown, and would be recognized as the May Day King for the rest of the holiday. Plants traditionally used to make Midsummer wreaths and garlands include white lilies, green birch , fennel , St. John's Wort , wormwood , vervain and flax . The flowers used in making

2208-615: The unfortunate, especially orphans . The Lithuanian and Latvian words for "the world" ( pasaulis and pasaule ) are translated as "[a place] under the Sun". Saulė is mentioned in one of the earliest written sources on Lithuanian mythology. According to the Slavic translation of the Chronicle by John Malalas (1261), a smith named Teliavelis made the Sun and threw it into the sky. Missionary Jerome of Prague (ca. 1369–1440) spent three years attempting to Christianize Lithuania and later recounted

2256-537: Was commonly used was the laurel wreath . The use of this wreath comes from the Greek myth involving Apollo , Zeus' son and the god of life and light, who fell in love with the nymph Daphne . When he pursued her she fled and asked the river god Peneus to help her. Peneus turned her into a laurel tree. From that day, Apollo wore a wreath of laurel on his head. Laurel wreaths became associated with what Apollo embodied; victory, achievement and status and would later become one of

2304-452: Was marked with a procession of 400 maidens in white and green, carrying "gilded crowns, crowns made of flowers, and wreaths made of laurel mixed with tulips", and led by the mayor's wife. Saint Lucy is traditionally depicted in Christian artwork wearing a wreath as a crown, and on the wreath stand lit candles symbolizing the light of the world represented by Christ. Sweden in particular has

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