Masks tote bag

1 / 1

Masks tote bag

£31.98 GBP

Quantity

All 9971 Masks tote bag items are already added to cart!

quantity product

Pairs well with

This bag, illustrated by Ukrainian artist Albina Kolesnichenko, features a collection of vibrant masks, each representing a character from the enchanting world of vertep, a Ukrainian Christmas puppet theater born in the 16th century.

Vertep traditionally unfolded on a two-level stage. Above, the nativity scene depicted the holy night. Below, vibrant scenes from Ukrainian life unfolded. As "vertep's" popularity grew, so did the desire to bring its vibrant characters to life. People stepped out from behind the puppet stage, donning these masks and embodying the roles themselves, blurring the line between puppetry and performance.

Members of the Kyiv Independent community get 15% off. Join our community here.

By purchasing this product, you directly support our independent journalism.

Pictured here:

- Ex-TikTok Producer and Video Host Masha Lavrova wearing Masks tote bag

Features

• Designed in Kyiv
• 100% polyester
• Maximum weight limit – 44lbs (20kg)
• Large inside pocket
• Comfortable cotton webbing handles
• Vibrant colors that won't fade
• Available in one size
• Blank product components sourced from Israel

Shipping info

Note: This product ships from outside Ukraine. When ordered with "The Power Within" magazine (shipped from Ukraine), you'll receive separate packages and be charged accordingly for each shipment.

Ukraine: 7-11 business days
US, EU, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan: 2-11 business days

To ensure faster delivery, items may be shipped from different locations around the world. Please allow 3-7 business days for processing, with delivery taking up to 17 business days depending on availability in your region.

This product is made specifically for you, which is why it may take a little extra time to deliver. Making products on demand helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!

Story behind the illustration

Vertep, a Ukrainian puppet theater tradition since the 16th century, depicts the Nativity scene with puppets on a two-story stage. Uniquely, it includes secular characters like Cossacks and merchants on the lower level, engaging in humorous dialogue and social commentary.

Originally performed solely with puppets, the tradition evolved to include human actors, blending storytelling, music, and drama. Inspired by Western mystery plays and infused with Ukrainian folk traditions, the Vertep remains a vibrant part of Ukraine's cultural heritage.