Snegurochka - The Snow Maiden
Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden, is a popular seasonal figure in Russian culture [folklore and in New Year’s celebrations]. Ded Moroz (Old Man Frost), aka Father Christmas, is either considered to be her Grandfather or her Father, in the story. Her present day costume is most commonly depicted with long silver-blue robes and embroidered cap.
And I learned that Americans don’t have this particular holiday character [reindeer and elves, but no snow maids].
Snegurochka helps Father Christmas deliver gifts to good children in celebration of the New Year and lives with him in Veliky Ustyug. This modern image of ‘Snegurochka’ first started to appear at the turn of the 20th century, in the late Russian Empire, when she became a popular character in children's New Year’s celebrations and theatrical performances. At this time, Snegurochka figurines were used to decorate the fir tree.
Of course, Christians took up the practice of placing angel figures on their Christmas trees to symbolize the significance of the angels who appeared over Bethlehem to announce Jesus' birth. So, depending on who you ask, I am either the snow maiden, or a Christmas tree angel decoration.
And I learned that Americans don’t have this particular holiday character [reindeer and elves, but no snow maids].
Snegurochka helps Father Christmas deliver gifts to good children in celebration of the New Year and lives with him in Veliky Ustyug. This modern image of ‘Snegurochka’ first started to appear at the turn of the 20th century, in the late Russian Empire, when she became a popular character in children's New Year’s celebrations and theatrical performances. At this time, Snegurochka figurines were used to decorate the fir tree.
Of course, Christians took up the practice of placing angel figures on their Christmas trees to symbolize the significance of the angels who appeared over Bethlehem to announce Jesus' birth. So, depending on who you ask, I am either the snow maiden, or a Christmas tree angel decoration.
This was my winter outfit this year. The fabric is blue with a snow flake pattern. I made the dress from scratch; it was easy to make, and had very few seams. It’s basically just a rectangle shape, with gathered shoulders, and a belted waist.
I made the boot covers and gloves at the last minute, trying to accessorize and stay warm. End result looks like a raver-snow fairy. The big wow-factor of the outfit, was that it lights-up. See the Workshop page for some notes about how I did this. Light up dresses have always been an interest of mine, and Christmas time is a good time of year to wear them. I love glow lights. I think it was a big hit, there were a lot of normal people who snuck pictures of me. Pictures were taken at Christmas In the Park. Photos by Eric V, Corpus, BlizzardTerrak, OscarC, and others. |
All photos are copyrighted.
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