After reading many books, articles, and other eggers view of the history of pysanky, I find that pysanky has been around between 1,000 years to over 4,000 years.

The meanings of the symbols have changed some from Pre-Christian also referred to as pagan time to the time that Christianity was brought to Ukraine. According to the many articles on the subject this was in 988 AD.

Pysanky might have two or more colors. These different colors have meaning and most express protection. Other colors reflect on intelligence, feelings, and good luck.

Wax and dyes are used to achieve the beautiful artwork. In the past dyes from nature were used. Today aniline dyes render the wonderful colors on pysanky.

Pysanky, is given for all occasions, according to the research on the subject they are given from birth to death, and everything in between.

For more complete information on the history and the symbols of pysanky please look for these books:

Ukrainian Easter Eggs, by Yaroslava Surmach
Pysanky: Icon of the Universe, by Mary Tkachuk, Marie Kishchuk, Alice Nicholaichuk
Eggs Beautiful How to Make Ukrainian Easter Eggs, by Johanna Luciow, Loretta Luciow
National Geographic April 1972, Easter Grettings From the Ukrainians, by Robert Paul Jordan