Hutsul Stonecraft – a Phenomenon of Sacral Ukrainian Culture

The purpose of the article is to comprehend the works of the artistic stonecraft of the Hutsul region as a phenomenon of the artistic culture of Ukraine; to prove the antiquity of the symbolism of decorative motifs used by the stone craftsmen from the Hutsul region. Research Methodology. The comparative and typological analysis was used to compare the artistic and stylistic features of stonecraft with the other types of folk art. While considering the artistic features, the author used a comprehensive method. Scientific Novelty. The artistic stonecraft of the Hutsul region and its significance in the development of the sacral culture of Ukraine is considered for the first time. The author collected and introduced into scientific circulation the unknown works of the memorial art of the Hutsul region. A number of works of the artistic stonecraft were published for the first time. The article considered the works of stonecraft presented in cross-crafting and figurative sacred plastic art, which has been preserved in the cemeteries of the Hutsul villages of Yamna, Malyi Kliuchiv, etc. Crosses without artistic plastic and with sculptures were considered. A typological analysis of the figures of the crucified Jesus Christ was carried out. The comparison of the style of the carved ornaments of artistic stonecraft with the carved decor in wood and artistic metal was given. Conclusions. Artistic stonecraft ornaments are associated with an ancient, even pre-Christian culture. The sign and symbolic system of ornaments of ancient origin was analysed. The study shows the antiquity of the traditions of artistic carving on both wood and stone in the Hutsul region. Works of artistic stonecraft of the Hutsul region are a phenomenon of sacral culture in Ukraine. They have to be preserved. One of the ways to solve this problem is to create a museum-lapidarium, where monuments would be restored and properly cared for under the supervision of the experts