Kyiv Chestnut & Krychevsky Sweatshirt

This design celebrates the tryzub, Ukraine's national trident symbol, inspired by one of the designs for the 1918 state emblem by artist and architect Vasyl Krychevsky.

The symbol itself is ancient, first used as a personal sign of power by Volodymyr the Great on his gold and silver coins in the 10th century. This system of princely signs fell out of use in the 13th century after the fragmentation of the Kyivan Rus state. When Ukraine declared its independence in 1918, this long-lost symbol was revived. The new republic commissioned Vasyl Krychevsky to create its official coat of arms.

This sweatshirt is inspired by his historic 1918 project. Krychevsky took the ancient tryzub and framed it with a graceful olive wreath to symbolize the new nation's peaceful ambitions and sovereignty. For our collection, the artist Nayle Suleimanova respectfully adapted Krychevsky’s two designs: the trident he designed for the coat of arms, and his design of the trident surrounded by chestnuts, created for state documents and stamps. Suleimanova stylized the design by adding more chestnut blossoms, a symbol of Kyiv, into the wreath.

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:

- Reporter Yuliia Taradiuk wearing Kyiv Chestnut & Krychevsky sweatshirt in size L

- War Crimes Investigations Unit Reporter Olesia Bida  wearing Kyiv Chestnut & Krychevsky sweatshirt in size L