The painting “The Eager Mowers”, which became the basis for this puzzle, was created in the technique of Petrykivka painting — a unique Ukrainian style of decorative art that originated in the 18th century in the village of Petrykivka in the Dnipro region. It began as a form of mural decoration for village houses. The ornamental patterns served not only a decorative purpose but also had symbolic, protective meanings: flowers, birds, fish, and fantastic creatures symbolized fertility, happiness, and prosperity. Over time, Petrykivka painting began to be applied to household items, musical instruments, toys, and more. In the 20th century, thanks to the efforts of master artists, Petrykivka painting was recognized as a professional art form.


The author of the painting is Valentyna Karpets-Yermolayeva, an Honored Folk Artist of Ukraine and laureate of the Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine (2025). She works at the Petrykivka Center of Folk Art, painting interiors as well as creating works on paper, canvas, fabric, and wood. Her artistic style is distinguished by lyricism, refinement, and deep respect for the traditions of Petrykivka painting.
The painting “The Eager Mowers” is part of the cultural project “Petrykivka Painting: Safeguarding Identity”, aimed at preserving and promoting Ukrainian artistic heritage. In 2025, this project was honored with the Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine, the country’s highest award in the field of culture and arts.
In 2013, Petrykivka painting was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition celebrates the unique tradition passed down from generation to generation, maintaining a living connection to the national identity of the Ukrainian people.
This puzzle is part of a bigger story that we invite you to explore further through the other puzzles in the Ukrainian Puzzles collection.
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