The meaning and origin of the grape motif used in decoration

The meaning and origin of the grape motif, which has been used in Japan for a long time

The grape motif was introduced to Japan during the Nara period and has been used since ancient times.

Grapes are a motif that symbolizes fertility and abundance because of their large number of seeds.

In ancient Greece, he is often depicted in sculpture and vase paintings with Dionysus, the god of wine and festivities.

As Christianity spread, it came to be seen as a symbol of the mysticism of religion, and the ivy on the type of cross with ivy wrapped around it is grape ivy.

The motif of sacred trees and the vines used to decorate illuminated manuscripts are also depicted as grape vines.

Like the interlacing seen in the decoration of Celtic art such as the Book of Kells, which fills the entire page, the developed grape arabesque motif is very clearly displayed, and the leaves, fruit, and vines are depicted crowded together, making it a symbol of fertility and abundance.

Even when not painted, it is a sight to behold.

The grape motif is widespread in Japan

The grape motif, which was introduced to Japan during the Nara period, can also be seen in many of the treasures of Emperor Shomu's Shosoin Repository.

From there, it was also used for obi patterns, and the grape squirrel design was born, combining grapes and a squirrel as an auspicious motif.It was used not only for kimonos and obi, but also as decoration for buildings, and Shibata Korenobu painted a picture of the grape squirrel.

Grapes bear a lot of fruit, which represents fertility and abundance, and squirrels give birth to many babies at once, which also represents fertility and prosperity of descendants.

Curiously enough, grape arabesque is also used in Buddhism and is depicted on the base of the Yakushi Nyorai statue.