News & Columns

What are runes? The origin, function, and meaning of Nordic runes
Runes are an ancient writing system used in the Nordic world, including by the Vikings. While being phonetic characters, they also functioned as symbols for prayers and warding off evil spirits, a...
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Viking Decorations and Weapons: An Expressive Culture of Power, Faith, and Stories
An explanation of the decorative culture of the Viking Age based on historical documents. This exhibition introduces the social role of silver and bronze metalwork, runic symbols and animal motifs...
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Celtic Patterns - Ancient Symbolism in Spirals and Triskeleton
Celtic patterns are symbols of ancient Europe that represent nature and faith. We will accurately explain the meaning behind spirals and triskeleton designs, as well as the background to their des...
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Celtic Silver Ornaments: Beliefs and Symbolism
The decorative patterns such as spirals and braids left behind by the Celtic people were not simply designs but symbols of their faith and worldview. We will provide an accurate explanation of sil...
Read moreWhat is Native American Jewelry? - An "art for survival" born out of persecution
Native American jewelry refers to silver jewelry traditionally made by Native Americans of the American Southwest, particularly the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi tribes. Its distinctive features lie in...
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The meaning and origin of the bat motif: a symbol of good fortune lurking in the darkness
In the world of decorative motifs, animals and plants are like mirrors that reflect people's wishes and values. Among these animals, bats, while at first glance evocative of creepiness and fear, h...
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The rose motif – the queen of European ornamentation, symbolizing love and divinity
Roses are flowers that have fascinated people since ancient times, and are called the "Queen of Flowers" for their beautiful fragrance, color, and shape. In Europe, the plant was used in a wide va...
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The Meaning and Origin of the Tulip Motif: A European Decoration Symbolizing Wealth and Elegance
Tulips are native to Central Asia and were introduced to Europe via the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. The vivid color of the petals and the elegant shape of the flower captivated people and ...
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Olive motif – an ancient ornament symbolizing peace and prosperity
Olives are an evergreen tree that represents the Mediterranean region, and their fruit has been deeply linked to human life as food and oil. At the same time, leaves and branches have appeared in ...
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The oak motif – a European decorative tradition symbolizing strength and longevity
Oak trees grow widely throughout Europe and have been revered since ancient times as sturdy and long-lived trees. Its wood is also used for weapons, construction, and ship materials, and is deeply...
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