Japanese crane on a pine branch by Ohara Koson, 1900-30
Japanese woodblock print in colour
White is often used as an example to explain how a color can be received differently; it is the color of the dead in China and Japan and the color of wedding dresses in Western and Christian cultures. So, it’s true that these contextual and cultural factors come into play in our prism, but counterexamples don’t rule out the biology of our systems. In Japan, white can also be received differently. For example, walls that are frequently white are much appreciated and there is a fascination with white cranes. In the Land of the Rising Sun, the Japanese crane symbolizes peace, luck and longevity. This sacred animal is also associated with fidelity and wisdom. Many beliefs and superstitions stem from this bird of good fortune known as Tsuru. It is said that a crane can live for 1,000 years, and that a pair of cranes will ensure a happy marriage.
Guillaume Bottazzi – April 2025