Initial Decorations
In the early days of the tradition of decorating Christmas trees, everything that was at hand was used: from bows made of expensive fabrics to candies and fruits. The practice of hanging candles on branches was particularly popular, although it was extremely dangerous due to the risk of fire.This stylish yet risky tradition led to fires affecting not only trees but entire homes and streets. Therefore, authorities and firefighters repeatedly suggested abandoning candles, but the problem remained relevant until the mid-20th century.
Political Themes in New Year Decor
With the development of manufacturing, glass balls and garlands began to be created in factories, replacing edible and dangerous decorations. In 1937, a unique series of balls featuring images of Politburo members, such as Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, and Vladimir Lenin, was released. Having such ornaments was considered a sign of prestige.
Photo from the internet. Ornaments featuring leaders are now considered the most expensive antiques
Large ornaments made of durable glass were produced for educational institutions, featuring simple shapes: balls, diamonds, and cones. The main symbol of New Year decoration remained a large red star — an attribute of Soviet decor.
In antique collections, you can find Christmas ornaments from the 40s to 60s, with prices reaching thousands of soms. For example, the Frunze Polytechnic Institute ordered large ornaments from Moscow for a huge Christmas tree, and they are now in private collections.
Evolution from the USSR to Modern Times
At flea markets in Bishkek, both modern and Soviet ornaments can be found at various prices. For instance, a Chinese plastic cone costs from 30 soms, while a glass Soviet one starts at 300 soms and above. Everyone chooses according to their taste.
Many prefer to decorate their trees exclusively with vintage glass ornaments. In the lead-up to the holiday, they visit flea markets in search of such specimens. However, it is worth noting that glass is a fragile material, and with carelessness, the ornaments can break.
As Chinese factories offer a wide range of decorations, the selection includes both classic glass balls and figures, as well as products made from modern materials such as velvet and embroidered textiles. Their assortment also includes themed ornaments symbolizing the year, as well as illuminated figures. Both inexpensive plastic and cardboard options and exclusive handmade items are available to buyers through online stores and city markets.
Kyrgyz Christmas Ornaments
The Mailuu-Suu lamp factory began producing handmade Christmas ornaments a few years ago. Each ball is hand-painted, featuring motifs from Soviet New Year postcards.
Interestingly, the first series of decorations was created in 2013 at the request of a Lviv factory, which asked for blanks for the ornaments.
The work on the order inspired the employees so much that they decided to continue experimenting, especially since the equipment allows for blowing fragile Christmas balls.
Each stage of painting the ornaments is carried out with great responsibility and enthusiasm. They feature not only retro motifs and characters from old animated films but also bright patterns adorned with glitter and snowy sprinkles.
However, unfortunately, these ornaments are not so easy to find in markets. They can only be purchased at the factory's branded store in Mailuu-Suu or at exhibitions and fairs in the capital. The price of one ornament is 150 soms.
Creativity and Uniqueness
In the lead-up to the New Year, artisans from Kyrgyzstan create unique series of Christmas decorations. They approach this process with great love and attention. The materials used are diverse: felt, beads, polymer clay, wood, and much more. A wide range of handmade New Year decorations is presented at Christmas fairs.
The figures of the ornaments delight with diversity — from cartoon characters to exquisite snowflakes and national patterns.
Today, anyone can find New Year decorations to suit any taste and budget. And for those who are into handicrafts, there is an opportunity to create unique decor for the holiday.
