Double Diagonal

Division

 
 
The “Double Diagonal” division is not a distinctly different division; it is merely a variant of the Diagonal division. Rather than having a single diagonal band on each face,
these pysanky have two diagonal bands which intersect to form a saltire (aka crux decussata) or “X” shape.

The diagonal bands can be quite simple (Балан 89 or 350) or fairly intricate (Балан 15), but they are always similar and symmetric. The motifs, when present, are usually symmetric, in that they are either identical in all the sections, or they alternate in a regular fashion.

Dividing bands are often present, and they, too, can be anything from a simple lines to intricately ornamented bands.  You can see the range of possibilities below, including one that is covered by the diagonal bands.

In pysanka 350 below, you see examples of «перерви» (perervy, interruptions), a not uncommon feature in Hutsul pysanky.  In this case they are not simple hooks, but the double-toothed hook sometimes seen in the Bukovynian bezkonechnyk. Pysanka 89 has a different sort of pererva, an eight-pointed star set into the bands and piercing the wedges.

Where the diagonal lines intersect, they form a saltire, or “X.” This type of cross is not just a Christian symbol, but also a powerful pagan symbol.

I have included multiple views of the four such pysanky below. 


(Note: the numeration of these eggs, i.e. the  “Балан - №,” simply reflects the order in which they were photographed and their data recorded.  It is just my bookkeeping system.)


 

Twice the Beauty



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