Wax Decoration of Margučiai (Easter Eggs) in Families of the Alytus Region

Wax-resist Easter egg decorating is widespread throughout Lithuania, but Alytus has become a notable center for preserving this tradition as a unique sociocultural heritage. Through numerous workshops organized by skilled decorators, the distinctive style and techniques of this craft have spread to surrounding areas and neighboring towns. The families living in this region who have kept the tradition alive for multiple generations are known across Lithuania, with Alytus-decorated margučiai being exhibited internationally.

Both historical examples preserved in museums and contemporary eggs decorated by Alytus artisans showcase a rich variety of techniques, colors, and patterns. The eggs prepared for the Easter table are traditionally dyed in red and black, with blue, green, yellow, and cherry shades appearing less frequently. They are adorned with intricate motifs such as bird tracks, rue leaves, sun symbols, dots, and teardrop shapes. The decoration process primarily involves using domestic hen eggs dyed with natural plant-based materials, including alder bark, iron, onion skins, beet juice, blueberries, red cabbage, turmeric, and other sources.

In families that maintain this tradition, egg decorating is not only a part of springtime festivities but also an artistic form of self-expression and even a craft. Mothers, grandmothers, and sisters pass down the nuances of the tradition, the secrets of wax-resist techniques, and the skills of egg decorating to the younger generation, teaching them to recognize symbols of life and nature’s rebirth. In the Alytus region, the tradition is transmitted both within families and through educational workshops. Due to growing public interest, supported by workshops, exhibitions, holiday fairs, and the widespread sharing of engaging content through various media, more people are eager to acquire, practice, and preserve this cultural heritage, ensuring its continuity for future generations.

Submission by: Alytus City Municipality Administration, Department of Culture

Tradition bearers: The Lampickas, Daukševičius, Ona Sadauskienė, Marytė Gilevičienė, and Eglė Teresevičienė families and relatives living in Alytus and its surroundings, as well as folk artists from the Dzūkija region

Certificate No. NKPVS-69