THE MEANINGS WOVEN IN
鶴
tsuru
A wish for a long life, and a love that lasts.
Crane
01
Where it comes from
In Japan the crane has long been said to live a thousand years. It also keeps one partner for life, and pairs are known to dance together in winter fields. So people gave the crane two wishes at once: a long life, and a devotion that lasts. It has been woven into wedding robes and New Year cloth for generations.
02
On the cloth
On obi, the crane often opens wide inside a circle, or flies among clouds and pine. Here one crane spreads out on deep red in white and gold; another rests beside mizuhiki, the red and gold cord tied on gifts; others cross a black ground between drifting clouds.
03
To give
Cranes have been given for weddings and anniversaries, and for birthdays that honor a long life. If someone comes to mind whom you hope will live long and well, this may be their pattern.
A word to keep
鶴は千年、亀は万年
tsuru wa sen-nen, kame wa man-nen
The crane lives a thousand years, the tortoise ten thousand. Said as a blessing for a long life.
