peacock
Japanese Name
くじゃく
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.
