When I first saw this little carnation hidden in this intricate embroidery from Crete, I just loved it! So simple, yet so beautiful.
As my research in Cretan embroidery continued I realised that the carnation is a very commonly used flower motif carrying a variety of meanings.
One of meanings that kept coming up was this idea of “plenty”. Think of it as a sort of wish for a lot of health or wealth, since the carnation flower is known for its many petals.
Motifs in Greek traditional embroidery often carried symbolic meanings, focusing predominantly on protection for the user or as good luck charms.
Want to find out more about the unusual shape enclosing the carnations? Head over to my blog post about the Korona Belt (here) to find out more.
