ABSTRACT
During the last decades, the fashion of 'Easter markets' was developed in Central Europe. Based on several traditions of decorating Easter eggs, the old customs changed into artistic work.
Mostly, those customs originated from Eastern Europe and were of preChristian origin. The egg is known worldwide as a symbol of fertility and revival of nature. There were findings in ancient graves of egg-shaped sculptures as well as remainders of decorated natural eggs (Polak, 1980). In many cultures eggs are integrated into buildings to keep away evil spirits and call upon the blessings of the appropriate gods. The name 'Easter' or Ostern, in German, is derived from Ostara, the goddess of the revival of nature, light and springtime. Her emblem was a rabbit, a sign of fertility.
