Ukrainian Artisan's Remarkable Reproduction of French Gallery Ornamentation
Date: 2023-12-11 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: CULTURE
A Discovery in Occupation
The encounter with Pavel Rozmyarchyk happened years ago, in a different millennium. He first showcased his recent triumph at an international exhibit, capturing gold and accolades. Then came more accolades, sporadic silver, until the artisan disappeared from the media radar for several years. He reemerged with a stunning creation—a scaled-down replica of the ornate panel adorning Louis XIV's gallery on the ship "La Réale de France." Accompanying this was his mythological interpretation of the "royal" narrative.
Inspiration Amidst Occupation
Rozmyarchyk encountered the gallery at the National Maritime Museum in Paris. France, despite its military prowess, lacked monumental victories in naval battles. However, their shipbuilding was revered. English admirals considered acquiring a trophy ship made in French shipyards a stroke of luck. The Ukrainian artisan admired French ships from the 17th and 18th centuries, reproducing at a scale of 1:3.5 two parts of the panel adorning the royal gallery: "Spring" and "Autumn."
Crafting with Essence
The original glistened with gold on a wooden base. The Ukrainian artist opted for humble walnut, eschewing gold powder for linseed oil. Why? According to him, the purpose of the panel was not merely decorative but a tool for art therapy on an energy-informational level. Touch it, feel the healing warmth of the wood. Reflection, the play of light, mattered significantly. Decorative covering could highlight or dim artistic value. The gold in the original served a protective and aesthetic function but overshadowed secondary details.
Unveiling Symbolism
In his study of "Spring," Rozmyarchyk discovered overlooked figures, like a salamander at the knees of a nymph. Delving into literature revealed the salamander as a symbol for all French royal dynasties, signifying their invulnerability to fire and water. Further exploration hinted at French artisans borrowing figures from pre-Christian pantheons... of Ukrainians.
Artistic Revelation
The dialogue from twelve years ago resurfaced when the master introduced a new creation—a series of carved panels based on Kotlyarevsky's "Aeneid." And now, the completion of a long-initiated project: carved copies of the "royal" panels "Summer" and "Winter."
Mastery Acknowledged
While the media lost touch due to the 2014 occupation, Rozmyarchyk's recent outreach revealed his latest masterpieces. Despite difficulties, he persisted in honing his craft, a dedication acknowledged by French experts at the National Maritime Museum, affirming his unparalleled restoration prowess.
This artisan's journey showcases not only remarkable craftsmanship but a fusion of historical interpretation and artistic innovation, transcending borders to unveil the intricate connection between Ukrainian mythology and European history.
