peacock
Japanese Name:
孔雀
Romaji Name:
kujaku
Description
↓↓
A peacock is a large, colorful bird, best known for the male’s long, iridescent tail feathers that can be spread out in a fan shape decorated with eye-like patterns. Native mainly to South Asia, peacocks are often symbols of beauty, pride, and grace.
History
↓↓
The peacock has been a symbol of beauty, pride, and immortality in many ancient cultures. In ancient Greece, it was associated with the goddess Hera, who was often depicted with a peacock. The bird’s colorful tail was thought to symbolize the "eyes" of Hera, representing her omnipresence.
In Hinduism, the peacock is linked to Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. It is also an emblem of the god Kartikeya, who is often depicted riding a peacock. Peacocks have been featured in Indian art and mythology for centuries.
Peafowls were introduced to Europe from India around the 1st century AD. The Romans especially admired peacocks and even ate their flesh, considering it a delicacy. The bird became a symbol of aristocracy and wealth.