CULTURAL INFLUENCES IN TERMS OF ECONOMIC RELATIONS OF GALICIA-VOLHYNIA RUS WITH THE EAST

Based on systematization of sources, the paper reconstructs the picture of cultural and economic contacts of Galicia-Volhynia Rus with eastern countries, primary attention being paid to trade and artistic crafts. We consider a wide range of artifacts (household items, accessories, things of personal piety, numismatic artifacts) that attest to the Eastern influence on the culture of the region, associated with economic and cultural links of Galicia-Volhynia Rus. We analyze artistic and stylistic features of separate handicrafts, which made up eastern imports, and identify their analogies and distribution area. We make an emphasis on peculiar existence of oriental goods in relation to growth of demand for them, their aesthetic value in the interior of housing or clothing of the ancient Ruthenian nobility, as well as the role of certain products in fashion and cult practice shaping. Key words: East, Galicia-Volhynia Rus, trade, encolpion crosses, goods, import.