Shawl "BELTS" wool 135x135

The shawl pattern is inspired by Russian traditional women’s belts of the 18th century.

Belts in Russia were an integral part of the traditional costume. Belts performed several functions simultaneously: practical, protective, symbolic, magic and esthetic. Belts in traditional cultures represented an important detail of men’s, women’s and kids’ garments. Accessories necessary in everyday life were fastened to belts, such as: women’s keys, combs, purses; men’s arms, pipes, tobacco pouches. Beyond their purely utilitarian function, belts held symbolical significance. Tied round a person’s body, the belt represented a self-contained circle that, according to folk beliefs, barred a way to evil spirits and protected from malefice. 

Woven belts in the shape of a ribbon symbolized the road, the life journey. It’s no coincidence that ribbons on our scarf are adjoined by the running horses harnessed to carts and carriages, locking into a cross as a symbol of eternal circle of life.