Obereg

The symbolic geometric designs stamped on the handles of my utensils are know as “oberegi” (обереги). A type of Slavic talisman, these symbols have been embroidered into garments (such as vyshyvanka) and cloth since pre-Christian times. The geometric symbols are considered the oldest and most powerful motifs, believed to carry a specific power to protect the wearer from harm, illness, or evil spirits, and to attract health, fertility, and good fortune.