“Wycinanki” pronounced Vee-chee-non-kee is the Polish word for ‘paper-cut design’. It is not known when or why this art form began to flower in Poland. Some suggest it goes back to the time when few farm houses had glass windows. To keep out the elements, farmers hung sheep skins over the window openings. Then, to let in some light and air, they took their sheep shears and snipped small openings in the skins, and these were soon recognized as decorative as well as functional.
Surrounded by elegantly cut flowers, Mary is seated holding the Baby Jesus who is wrapped in swaddling cloths. Joseph stands next to them. A sheep rests at Mary’s feet while two angels flank the Holy Family. The Star of Bethlehem shines about the Baby Jesus while brilliant stars surround them.
Artist: Unknown
Country: Poland
Material: Paper
Number of Pieces: 1
Jesus, Mary, Joseph
Acquired: 2000