Week 3 of our “Wagara Wednesday” series highlights the geometric #uroko (#鱗) pattern.
The word “uroko” is loosely translated as “scale,” and thus, the pattern of alternating dark and light triangles is said to represent the scales of a snake or dragon.
As snakes are known to naturally shed or molt scales, the pattern carries the meaning of repelling evil spirits and making way for new growth.
From ancient times, uroko has been used as a pattern with the effect of warding off bad luck. Uroko was also thought to have a protective quality when symbolizing a dragon on a kimono or obi. Samurai would wear clothing with the pattern as a talisman to protect themselves from harm. The shape-shifting folk character of Japanese Noh dramas, Kiyohime, also wears a kimono bearing this pattern.
This week, may the uroko pattern serve as protection against the growing pandemic.