01
Where it comes from
Triangles meet point to point, like the scales of a snake, a fish, or a dragon. Long ago the pattern stood for renewal, and it was worn against misfortune; women in an unlucky year are said to have worn scales to slip past it. In Noh and kabuki it has marked the robes of characters who change their form. Its simple shape also made it a family crest.
02
On the cloth
On kimono and obi, uroko often appears as a bold ground of triangles in two colors, sometimes with gold or silver so the scales catch the light. It can also sit small, as a border, or inside another shape.
03
To give
Uroko has been given in a year people want to be protected, and to someone making a fresh start. It suits a friend who is shedding an old season and stepping into a new one.
A word to keep
厄除け
yakuyoke
Warding off misfortune. The wish people have given to this pattern.
This pattern, to keep
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Two questions
What does the Scales (鱗) pattern mean?
A wish to be kept from harm, and to begin again. Uroko has been given in a year people want to be protected, and to someone making a fresh start.
Where does the 鱗 pattern come from?
Triangles meet point to point, like the scales of a snake, a fish, or a dragon. Long ago the pattern stood for renewal, and it was worn against misfortune; women in an unlucky year are said to have worn scales to slip past it.
