‘Sho’, pine, is a native tree in Japan that is known for its vitality and has been revered since ancient times. It is an evergreen tree that stands tall and strong against the cold, never losing its color or needles even when all other trees have gone bare. It is for this reason that ‘Sho’ is a symbol of life and longevity. With the beauty and durability fitting for Shochikubai, this design is made out of Urushi, Japanese lacquer, and delicately detailed with gold, in an ink washed painting style.

Pine (‘Sho’)

The Decagon is the infinitely evolving, always unique, and eternally open membership token of the Decaverse. Designed by Kjetil Golid.

Decagon #42388

Before going on stage, the main actor of the Noh performance takes a moment to appreciate the mask. Praying and focusing, the actor begins to embody the character. The two entities, actor and mask, merge into one as they ascend the stage.

Identity #5/30

Every moment is intentional. Each step the actor takes on the stage’s floor during the dance carries a purpose. Whether it’s setting a rhythm, expressing feelings, portraying actions, or setting an atmosphere, the actor is in control.

Control #2/30

Identity #13/30

‘Bai,’ plum tree, was originally brought over from overseas and it first symbolized the elegance of continental culture. It wasn’t until the Edo period where the beauty of ‘Bai’ became the embodiment and symbol of hope. Delicate pink and white flowers welcome us out of winter and, even in the frost of early spring, these flowers bloom and give us hope in the new year. With the beauty and durability fitting for Shochikubai, this design is made out of Urushi, Japanese lacquer, and delicately detailed with gold, in an ink washed painting style.

Plum tree (‘Bai’)

Identity #12/30

Various actions and feelings are expressed through the dance movements of the main actor. With a simple traditional fan complex emotions of anguish, longing, and grief can be portrayed. The fan is an extension of the actor, able to give the actor the ability to communicate beyond words depending on the position the fan takes. 

Strength #2/30

Strength #20/30

Determination V2

Control #1/30

“Determination” is a collection that introduces young masters and their arts, diving into the fundamental components of Japanese traditional Arts. It’s a collection that’s determined to survive for generations.

DETERMINATION

‘Chiku,’ bamboo, is a native tree in Japan that has held significant symbolism throughout various Japanese traditions over the centuries. The vigorous growth of the ‘Chiku’ shows prosperity and embodies endurance through flexibility in the most difficult times. To grow strong, fast, and straight despite adversity is why ‘Chiku’ symbolizes the will for life and hope for the future. With the beauty and durability fitting for Shochikubai, this design is made out of Urushi, Japanese lacquer, and delicately detailed with gold, in an ink washed painting style.

Bamboo (‘Chiku’)

A very unique traditional concepts in Japan is Shochikubai (zh-OH-chee-khOO-bye). 

Shochikubai is a symbol in Japan that means so much more than a “good luck charm.” 

Like most cultural aspects in Japan, the meaning is rooted deeper than the translation. Derived from an ancient Chinese painting, “Three Friends of Winter,” Shochikubai was adopted into Japanese culture and blended into traditions. 

Pine (‘Sho’ 松), bamboo (‘Chiku’ 竹), and plum tree (‘Bai’ 梅) are the three important symbols that make up Shochikubai. 
Together they are the harmonious symbol of good luck, but separately, they bear their own unique meaning; they symbolize longevity, life and the future, along with hope. They represent the ability to survive adversity and the harshest winter in order to embrace the revitalization that comes with the New Year and spring. 

Shochikubai is seen throughout Japanese cultural traditions such as in Noh theater, Ikebana, and Tea ceremonies. 

MTKNFT

MTKNFT

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