Japan: Island of the Dragonfly
What Does the Dragonfly Symbolize?Japanese culture holds the dragonfly in very high esteem. The dragonfly can be considered a symbol of strength, revitalization, and happiness. It is also connected to the change in season and harvest. We see the appreciation for the dragonfly in Japanese poetry, mythology and art.
Japanese Mythology: Emperor Jimmu & The DragonflyAccording to Japanese legend, the empire of Japan was first established by a man named Jimmu. One day on his travels he was bitten by a mosquito. Immediately after this a dragonfly swooped down and killed the mosquito. From then on, the dragonfly became a symbol in Japanese culture. The ancient name of the island of the Japan became "Akitsushima", meaning "Island of the Dragonfly".[10] |
(17th Century Samurai Helmet)
Victory InsectDragonflies are among the kachibushi, or victory insects, making them a symbol of strength and prosperity in battle. They earned this name due to their exceptional hunting ability. Japanese warriors would adorn their armor and weapons with dragonfly art to bring good fortune. [5]
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Haiku
Japanese poets are well-known for their romantic poetry on the dragonfly.
Kobayashi Issa
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Kobayashi Issa is a renowned Japanese poet who is is believed to have lived sometime in the 17th & 18th centuries. Issa and his family hailed from Kobayashi Village, until Issa moved to Tokyo at the age of 13 following his mother's death. As a countryboy living in the city, Issa learned to express himself through poetry, specifically haiku. It is said he wrote over five thousand haikus during his lifetime. Later in his life, the famed poet was also a priest. [1]
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The dragonfly!
Distant mountains reflected In his eyes -Issa Have you come to save us haiku poets? Red dragonfly -Issa [4] |
Artwork
Here are some more examples of the dragonfly being used to adorn various items.
Dragonfly decorated Tsuba (Guards on sword handle)
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The Spirit of the Rice HarvestThis piece is inspired by the dragonfly and its connection to the rice harvest. Rice is one of the most important crops in Japan, and the dragonfly signifies a good harvest. [11]
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