Zsuzsanna Erdélyi

art writer, ethnologist

Komárno , 10 January 1921 – Budapest, 13 February 2015

Full member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts (2011–2015)

Zsuzsanna Erdélyi was one of the leading figures of Hungarian folklore studies and religious ethnography in the past decades. She has gained great professional prestige in Hungary and abroad primarily by the genre description of archaic folk prayers, their analysis in a cultural, literary and folklore context and by her humane personality.

Artist of the Nation

The top prize in the hierarchical system of art awards, granted to Kossuth Prize-winning artists over 65 who have created significant value in their artistic field. By law, no more than seventy artists may hold it simultaneously.

View award

2013

governmental award

Commander's Cross with Star of the Hungarian Order of Merit

One of the four highest Hungarian state decorations is the Order of Merit of Hungary, whose grades are awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary activity in culture, science, art, or their own professional field – to promote Hungary’’s interests and the advancement of universal human values.

View award

2001

governmental award

Kossuth Prize

The highest Hungarian state decoration for the cultivation and preservation of Hungarian culture.

View award

1992

governmental award

Order of the Flag of the Republic of Hungary, with Laurel Wreath

A high-ranking state decoration, awarded in multiple grades for merits in the struggle for peace or in nation-building, as well as in developing cooperation and friendly relations between Hungary and foreign states, and in consolidating international peace and friendship. Discontinued in 1991.

View award