The meaning and origin of the dove motif: Symbolism and cultural background of the decoration
Doves appear in cultures, religions and art decorations around the world and have symbolic meanings of peace, purity, love and the Holy Spirit .
In this article, we will look at the historical background of the dove motif and its interpretation in each cultural sphere, and offer tips on how to incorporate it into decorations and designs.
Ancient origins
Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean World
- In ancient Mesopotamia, the dove was a symbol of the goddess Ishtar (goddess of love and fertility).
- In ancient Greece, it was considered the sacred bird of the goddess Aphrodite (Roman name Venus) and symbolized love and beauty.
Roman Empire
- Doves are depicted in mosaics and decorative arts, representing domestic comfort and marital love.
Religious meaning
Christianity
- In the New Testament, the dove appears as a symbol of the Holy Spirit .
- In the story of Noah's Ark, a dove carrying an olive branch signals the end of the flood and the arrival of peace.
White doves are also said to represent the pure souls of the dead resting in paradise.
Islamic cultural sphere
- It is revered as the bird that protected the Prophet Muhammad and is a symbol of purity and protection.
Doves in European Decor
- Depicted in medieval tapestries and stained glass windows, she symbolizes purity and charity .
- Since the 19th century, it has also become widely used as a symbol of the peace movement.
Pigeons in East Asia (mainly Japan)
Doves as messengers of the Hachiman deity
- He is considered to be the messenger of Hachiman (Emperor Ojin) and is particularly a symbol of victory, protection, and guidance .
- There is a legend that when Empress Jingu led her troops to Korea, a white dove showed her the direction.
- Dove designs are often used on Hachiman Shrine's crest, flags, and votive plaques.
Buddhist symbolism
- Doves are said to be birds that hate killing, and are a symbol of mercy and non-killing .
- They are depicted as protected beings in temple gardens and precincts.
A symbol of marital harmony and family security
- A pair of doves represents marital harmony and domestic peace.
- It was also used in designs for local toys and wedding accessories from the Edo period.
A modern symbol of peace
- After the war, the dove holding an olive branch became a global symbol of peace.
- The image of "peace = dove" has become established even among generations without religious backgrounds.
Summary of main meanings in decoration
| Symbolism | background |
|---|---|
| peace | Noah's Ark and the Olive Branch, Postwar Peace Movement |
| purity | White feather, symbol of the Holy Spirit |
| Love and Beauty | Aphrodite's sacred bird, conjugal love |
| Holy Spirit | Symbolism of the Spirit of God in Christianity |
| Divine Messenger | Doves as messengers of the Hachiman deity |
| Guidance | Legend of Empress Jingu |
summary
The dove motif is a universal design that is used widely, from religious symbols to peace movements.
In Japan in particular, with the background of Hachiman faith, it has strong meanings of victory, protection, and guidance , and in jewelry and metalwork, its flapping wings and combination with an olive branch are popular motifs.
