Now Viewing: genbuTag type: Character 玄武 The Black Tortoise is one of the Four Symbols [1] of the Chinese constellations. It is sometimes called the Black Warrior of the North (北方玄武, Běi Fāng Xuán Wǔ), and is known as Genbu (玄武) in Japan, Hyeonmu in Korea and Huyền Vũ in Vietnam. It represents the north and the winter season. Although its name in Chinese, Xuánwǔ, is often translated as Black Tortoise in English, it is usually depicted as both a tortoise and a snake, specifically with the snake coiling around the tortoise. In ancient China, the tortoise and the snake were thought to be spiritual creatures symbolizing longevity. During the Han Dynasty, people often wore jade pendants that were in the shape of tortoises. Because of ancient Chinese influence on Japan, honorific titles and badges in Japan often referred to the tortoise or images of tortoises. [1] en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Symbols_%28China%29 pixiv tags: 玄龜, 玄武, 玄龟, 北方玄武 See also: Genbu_(Nijiura_Maids) Seiryuu, azure dragon of the east Byakko, white tiger of the west Suzaku, vermilion bird of the south From danbooru.donmai.us/wiki_pages/76573 Other Wiki Information Last updated: 11/18/17 6:27 PM by surveyork This entry is not locked and you can edit it as you see fit. |
     
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