Rushnyky

Rushnyky (sing. rushnyk) are woven and/or embroidered ritual towels that play a prominent role in traditional Ukrainian culture. They are used at every major life event, especially during rituals associated with weddings: they are worn as sashes by the "matchmakers" (starosty/svaty), and the bride and groom stand on a rushnyk during the church wedding service. In addition, they are traditionally used as decorative items, particularly to decorate the frames of icons.

Our collection has hundreds of rushnyky from various regions of Ukraine, ranging from very traditional designs such as the one on the left, as well as more whimsical designs such as those below.