The saddlebags division can be a bit less obvious sometimes, and a bit exaggerated others. These pysanky use the division, but may not actually show all of the dividing lines. An example is the pysanka above from the Kyiv region–you can see the handle of the saddlebags, but the dividing line is gone; all that is left is “Chicken feet.”

These variations on the saddlebag can be divided into several groups. The first group is the exaggerated sakvy.  This is the traditional division, but the “strap” is elongated and becomes part of the motif contained within the sakvy. These pysanky from the Cherkasy and Vinnytsia regions exemplify this:

A second type is the “Paddle” variant.  In this version of the sakvy division, the saddlebags become rounded and paddle shaped. They are defined by a continuous double line that loops around the egg. It is most evident in these two pysanky from the Vinnytsia region:

These two pysanky, from the Vinnytsia and Cherkasy regions, are similar, but not quite as rounded as the previous examples:

Another variation on the ”Paddle” is the pysanka below from the Kyiv region; the rounded lines are not complete, but curl up at the bottom of the saddlebag:

The Paddle variation of the sakvy division is the basis for the modern “Eye of the Needle” variant described on a following page.

A last variant is the floral one below; flowers alternate up and down, with the flower heads themselves taking the place of the saddlebag.  This pysanka is from the Chernihiv region.

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Note:  All photos, illustrations and text © Luba Petrusha 2007-2010. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction prohibited without expressed consent.  May contact via e-mail (link below).