Tamar of Georgia
Samaia is performed by 3 women and, originally, was considered to be a Paganism dance. However, today's Samaia is a representation of Tamar of Georgia, who reigned in 12th-13th centuries and was the first woman king of Georgia. There are only 4 frescos that keep the much-revered image of King Tamar. Simon Virsaladze based the costumes of Samaia on the King's clothing on those frescos. In addition, the trinity idea in the dance represents Tamar of Georgia as a young princess, a wise mother and the powerful king. All these three images are united in one harmonious picture. The simple but soft and graceful movements create an atmosphere of beauty, glory and power that surrounded the King's reign.