The Motanka is an ancient Ukrainian talisman. It symbolizes well-being, kindness, and hope and is a powerful sacred object. Motanka dolls first appeared about five thousand years ago in the Chernihiv region. The name Motanka comes from the word “to spin” or “to twist.” An interesting fact is that the Motanka had no distinct facial expression, and ancestors believed that a human soul could live in a Motanka. They made different types of dolls: play dolls, ritual dolls, etc. The colors of these dolls also played a significant role. The color blue, for example, symbolized the flood of flowing water. Yellow, the sun and its life force.
The Motanka is the energy of the family. It creates a connection between generations, is considered a sacred symbol, and provides protection and well-being to generations.