On Wednesday, an exceptional exhibition presenting the spring and Easter traditions of the Sorbs will open at the Museum of Ceramics. The Sorbs, who inhabit the area between the Elbe and the Kwisa, preserved and developed their national culture despite intensified Germanisation, mainly thanks to their deep religiosity, cultivation of traditions and strong family ties.
Ancient folk customs have been cultivated in Upper and Lower Lusatia for many centuries. The Easter period is particularly rich in folk traditions. These include decorating and giving Easter eggs. Since the Reformation, there has been a tradition of godparents giving gifts to their godchildren. The customary gift consists of colourfully decorated Easter eggs, an Easter roll and sweets. The magical number “three” represents happiness, prosperity and health for the recipients. Other customs include the bird wedding, masquerade processions, the Easter riders’ parade, the burning of witches, and the raising and toppling of the May tree.
These and many other Sorbian rituals can be explored by visiting the exhibition at the Bolesławiec museum. The opening will take place on 3 March at 4:00 p.m. in the building of the Museum of Ceramics’ Department of City History at 14 Kutuzowa Street.
The exhibition will be open to visitors until 11 April 2010.
(information from the Museum of Ceramics/ii)