On Thursday, 21 November, Latvijas Banka will issue a 2 euro commemorative coin with an image of puzuris – which according to the bank is "a Latvian winter solstice ornament" though many Latian folklorists might argue that it represents something far more profund.
"Puzuris is a traditional Latvian ornament that visually and symbolically represents the world. It is known by many names across Latvia's regions. Hung from the ceiling, it sways at the slightest breath of wind. The deeper meaning of the swaying puzuris involves the concept of the winter solstice when the sun shifts its course towards the spring, is reborn and regains its strength to rise higher. For puzuris to sway effortlessly, it is crafted from light materials and suspended by a thin thread," explains the keeper of the nation's cash.
"Among other purposes, these ornaments were used to adorn rooms for weddings and baby blessing rites. On such occasions, the central puzuris was complemented by multiple smaller ones. Used as an ornament at a wedding, it symbolised the fertility and harmony of the newly-weds, whereas at a baby blessing rite, its swaying movements promised health and prosperity to the newborn," continues the central bank.
"Traditionally, there are two main types of puzuris. The first one is a polyhedron – made of straw or reeds. This geometric depiction of the world is featured on the new 2 euro commemorative coin The second one is a round turnip, suspended by a thread and pierced with rye straws, representing a hedgehog curled into a ball. Christmas is the time when the sun arises in the image of a hedgehog and begins its journey towards awakening. Such ornaments are also considered to offer strong protection against the evil and threats," it expands.
The mintage of the "Puzuris" coin in circulation quality or in rolls is 400 000 pieces. These coins will be released into circulation just like the traditional 2 euro coins with the national symbols of the countries. Meanwhile, 7000 coins will be minted in Brilliant Uncirculated quality (available in gift packaging) and 6000 coins will be minted for the circulation coin sets. The price of the coin in gift packaging is 13.80 euro and that of a circulation coin set – 35 euro.
If you fancy the real thing – which also comes considerably cheaper – here is a handy guide to making your own puzuris.
