Original Hand Painted Japanese Scroll of Cranes and Pines in Sooke, British Columbia

Original Hand Painted Japanese Scroll of Cranes and Pines, 20" by 60".
* In Japan the crane was known as 'the bird of happiness' and was often referred to as 'Honorable Lord Crane'.
* The birds were associated with fidelity (faithfulness and devotion to one's partner) because they paired for life.
* They were also symbols of longevity and were often drawn with pine trees, tortoises, stones and bamboo - all symbols of long life.
In Japan the crane was called tancho meaning 'red crown'. The red and white of the crane became important colors in Japanese symbolism and art. Because of their association with
fidelity, prosperity and longevity, the crane motif and these colors are a common symbol in marriages in Japan. They are often used on the bride's kimono; on announcing their engagement the bride and groom often exchange decorations shaped like cranes; sweet cakes baked in the shape of cranes, and even ice sculptures of cranes are likely to be part of the
wedding celebrations.