The fun winter fun of making a snowman has come to us since ancient times. This favorite of children and adults, which has become a symbol of winter and the New Year, can be found in every courtyard, park, almost every square. A snowman with a carrot nose and a funny bucket instead of a hat is able to easily cheer you up with just his appearance. Maybe that's why he is credited with supernatural abilities.
According to ancient legends, the first snowman was molded by the famous sculptor Michelangelo Buonarroti in 1493. And the mention of this snow creation in literature first appeared in the 18th century. The very same word "snowman" was borrowed from the German language. Also in Germany, namely in Leipzig, a children's book was published, where the image of a snowman first appeared.
Initially, they were portrayed as evil snow monsters of enormous size. The belief that snowmen are a threat originated at a time when winters, accompanied by fierce frosts and blizzards, caused quite a lot of harm. People avoided sculpting them on the full moon, believing that it would bring them bad luck, night fears and bad dreams. Residents of Norway did not dare to look at the snowman from the window in the late evening. It was also considered a bad sign to meet at night a figurine of a snow giant.
A more peaceful image of a snowman appeared only in the 19th century. Having become a cheerful symbol of winter and the New Year, cute creatures quickly won the love of children and their parents. In various parables and legends, they were endowed with light and good qualities. For example, according to Christian legend, snowmen are angels who came from heaven. In ancient times, people, having made a snowman, quietly trusted him “in their ear” the most cherished desires, believing that it would definitely reach heaven and come true.
In Europe, it was customary to install a snowman near the house. He was decorated with garlands, brooms, and a scarf was tied. These garments were not accidental. Carrots instead of a nose were an offering to spirits, providing fertility and a large harvest. The bucket on the head was a symbol of wealth in the house. The inhabitants of Romania hung a garlic necklace around the snowman's neck, protecting the household from dark forces and diseases.
The Russian custom of making snowmen came from ancient pagan times. They were considered the spirits of winter and were treated with great respect, asking for help or asking for an end to long frosts. It should be noted that female images of a snowman (Snow Maiden, snow women) are truly Russian creatures. Their ancestors also treated them with reverence, attributing to them the ability to control winter snows, fogs and blizzards.
Embodying fun and celebration, the snowman has become a favorite of children and a popular character in New Year's fairy tales. Children and adults all over the world are happy to take part in various fun activities and competitions in snowman molding.
