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Poliovyk
A fieldman in Ukrainian demonology is a spirit that guards the fields and keeps them in order. He is depicted in several variations, and each of them is endowed with certain features that emphasize his connection with nature and his demonic essence. In the classic image, the fieldman looks like a little old man with tanned skin, a weathered face, and clothes that look like sheaves or dry grass. He constantly monitors the fields, especially in the hot afternoon, and can punish those who violate the rules of working on the land. Those who meet him in the field at lunchtime, the fieldman can make them get lost or get sick.
In another version, the fieldman is described as a humanoid being with features of animals, plants, and a demonic nature. His body can be covered with grass or bark, and his hair resembles the stalks of cereal crops. The legs sometimes have animal features, similar to hooves, and his face is decorated with small horns that emphasize his connection with evil forces. The horns characteristic of some versions of his image give him the appearance of a wild nature spirit guarding his possessions.
The appearance of a hunter is often accompanied by a strong wind, which raises dust and creates a feeling of anxiety. Sometimes people could see sparks or lights appearing in the air—traces of his magical power. A fieldman can be both a guardian of the fields and a dangerous spirit that punishes carelessness or contempt for nature. They were especially wary of his anger while working in the fields on holidays or Sundays.
To appease the fieldman, the peasants brought gifts: they left bread, milk or a little of the first harvest in the field. This was to provide protection against bad weather, pests and a bad harvest in the next season. People tried not to go out into the field during strong winds or at lunchtime, when the field worker was considered particularly active.
In another version, the fieldman is described as a humanoid being with features of animals, plants, and a demonic nature. His body can be covered with grass or bark, and his hair resembles the stalks of cereal crops. The legs sometimes have animal features, similar to hooves, and his face is decorated with small horns that emphasize his connection with evil forces. The horns characteristic of some versions of his image give him the appearance of a wild nature spirit guarding his possessions.
The appearance of a hunter is often accompanied by a strong wind, which raises dust and creates a feeling of anxiety. Sometimes people could see sparks or lights appearing in the air—traces of his magical power. A fieldman can be both a guardian of the fields and a dangerous spirit that punishes carelessness or contempt for nature. They were especially wary of his anger while working in the fields on holidays or Sundays.
To appease the fieldman, the peasants brought gifts: they left bread, milk or a little of the first harvest in the field. This was to provide protection against bad weather, pests and a bad harvest in the next season. People tried not to go out into the field during strong winds or at lunchtime, when the field worker was considered particularly active.