latvian mittens
Wow, this site appears to be straight-forward — swag for NATO diplomats — but really it's an intensely interesting look at Latvian ethnographic regional identity. The site shows the work of about 300 knitters who made over 4500 mittens for the NATO summit visitors and it categorizes them by their four regions as well as a break down of whether they were knit for men or women. I'm seriously moved by sheer volume and unique designs. Please check out the links listed below the ornate gold framed picture, there are many pages of amazing knit patterns to behold. Below that is a list of FAQ about the mittens and here's an interesting history link about the oldest mitten. Plus each mitten has a high resolution download.
One should not wipe their nose in a mitten. Whoever does that never gets rich.
— Latvian superstition