approximate size: 4"x 3"x 1.5"
While we may think of spiders as a symbol specific to Halloween, the eight-legged creatures actually come into play a symbol for Christmas Celebrations.
The history of spiders at Christmas dates back to the late 1800’s in the Ukraine. Ukrainians create small Christmas tree ornaments in the shape of spiders (known as pavuchky, literally meaning "little spiders"), These Decorative Ornaments are often made from wire, beads or glass and are said to bless a home with good luck.
The Origins of the Christmas spider come from a tale of a family in need. A poor but hardworking widow once lived in a small hut with her children. One summer day, a pine cone fell on the earthen floor of the hut and took root. The widow's children cared for the tree, excited at the prospect of having a Christmas tree by winter. The tree grew, but when Christmas Eve arrived, they could not afford to decorate it. The children sadly went to bed and fell asleep. Early the next morning, they woke up and saw the tree covered with cobwebs. When they opened the windows, the first rays of sunlight touched the webs and turned them into gold and silver. The widow and her children were overjoyed. From then on, they never lived in poverty again.
This ancient tale gives the Ukrainian origins of tinsel, and as many traditions has globally influenced our holiday décor!
Spiders are seen as lucky in many cultures. Enjoy your Christmas spider direct from artists in the Ukraine!
Handmade. Fairtrade. Ukraine.
*This is a handcrafted item, variations in color and size are to be expected.