The
Crane bird in traditional Chinese culture was often depicted on the official
robes of high-ranking members of the ancient Court. This represented nobility, rank and
importance. Images of the Crane have
also been discovered in tombs of the Shang Dynasty and on ancient ceremonial
bronzes.
As well as being an important
symbol of longevity, and as a bird, second only to the mythical Phoenix in the
practice of Feng Shui, the elegant and leggy Crane is associated with the
traditions of many ancient and modern cultures, some of which we covered in the
first post.
In Chinese mythology and in Taoist
traditions the red-headed Crane is represented as the bird of immortality. When a mortal attains immortality he was said
to be carried off to the heavens on the back of a Crane. The Immortals are often displayed riding on
Cranes. This particular Crane is known
as 'pinyin' or the 'fairy Crane;' the Crane of the Immortals. In Taoist history an 'Immortal' or 'Xian' was
said to have the ability to transform into a Crane to undertake a journey.
On the island of Hokkaido situated to the
north of mainland Japan and the east of mainland Russia there is a resident
population of red-crested Cranes. The
locals are often seen bringing fish to their permanent residents during the
winter months and the Cranes will tolerate other predators stealing their food
in exchange for relative safety and protection of their offspring.
The Siberian Crane, which is predominantly
white with a reddish head undertakes an annual migration involving a 10,000
round trip and while they usually fly at an altitude of between three and five
thousand feet they rise even higher when passing over mountain ranges on their
migratory path. This may have given rise
to the mythology surrounding this bird in Taoist culture.
The red-crested Crane is one of four
national animals of China along with another of the creatures synonymous with
Feng Shui; the Chinese Dragon.
As well as the red-crested Crane which is
predominantly white, in Chinese mythology there is also the yellow, blue and
black Crane.
The black Crane is said to live the longest
and when two Cranes are imaged together it embodies the ultimate portrayal of
longevity.
Cranes symbolises happiness and smooth
flight; a smooth path through life. When he flies among the clouds he signifies
wisdom and nobility as well as longevity.
A reflection no doubt of the significance of the Immortals in flight.
As a symbol of longevity the Crane is imaged with its wings
outstretched and one leg raised up.
In addition to longevity when combined with other symbolic
representations the meaning takes on a different guise.
Imaged with pine trees, the Crane represents wealth, power and fortitude.
Together with the peony flower they signify prosperity as well as
longevity.
With the lotus flower they become a symbol of purity and
longevity.
Flying towards the sun the Crane represents a desire for social
advancement and perched high up looking towards the sun, someone who can see
all.
He is sometimes imaged together with the deer; another symbol of
longevity and wealth.
The peach tree is said to yield fruit which, when eaten, signifies
eternal life and it is often seen in traditional paintings with the Crane.
The Crane is also a symbol of cleanliness and purity which may be
why traditional Japanese brides have an image of this bird displayed on their
wedding kimono.
In symbolic Feng Shui the Crane continues to be popular so whether you display them in the East to represent
health and longevity or the South to represent fame, recognition and
opportunity, or anywhere else in your home or office they will bring a sense of
freedom, beauty and, of course, longevity.
To the fulfillment of your dreams
LynC
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