Lucy had been interested in the Primstav calendar symbols from her earliest studies of Norwegian folk art. Gene began making some large bowls and platters for her to inscribe with these symbols. Years later she is still studying these interesting marks that evoke a northern world cycles of labor and spirit in harshly beautiful climate and terrain. This image began with the most important day of the Nordic year, Juledag and ends with the important day for the Millstone grind for the winter stores. High-quality Giclee prints in two sizes: Large 21" x 5" or Small 10 3/4" x 2.5". Information about the different symbols is on the back of the print. Signed and dated by Lucy Tokheim

The ancient Norwegian calendar stick was called a Primstav. It divided the year into winter and summer with lines for each day. The picture symbols vary, but reminded people of important dates: church holidays, or practical reminders on when to take sheep to the pastures or dig potatoes. This design series is inspired by some of these wonderful pictures of an earlier time.