Tako Collection

"Tako: A Journey through Art and Culture" Step into the world of "tako, " a word that holds various meanings and interpretations

Chef preparing takoyaki famous street food in Osaka, Japan

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ANIMALS Domestic Cats " Tigger" pet cat asleep Sleep Sleeping Nap Catnap Napping Rest Asia Gray Japanese Nihon Nippon Asian Grey Sleeping Resting

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The day octopus, Octopus cyanea, is also known as the big blue octopus. It occurs in both the Pacific and Indian Oceans, from Hawaii to the eastern coast of Africa

Tako Collection: Tako no asirai, Octopus treading. Kobayashi, Kiyochika, 1847-1915, artist, 1904

Tako no asirai, Octopus treading. Kobayashi, Kiyochika, 1847-1915, artist, 1904. 1 print : woodcut, color; 36.9 x 24.9 cm

Tako Collection: Tako ni noboru otoko, A boy flying a kite. [between 1830 and 1870], 1 print : woodcut

Tako ni noboru otoko, A boy flying a kite. [between 1830 and 1870], 1 print : woodcut, color; 22.8 x 16.9 cm. Print shows a man, hovering over nearby trees

Tako Collection: 1826?-1869 1859. 23. 7 35. 8 Distant Enshu Fukuroi

1826?-1869 1859. 23. 7 35. 8 Distant Enshu Fukuroi
Enshū akiba enkei fukuroi no tako, Distant view of Akiba of Enshu: kites of Fukuroi. Utagawa, Hiroshige, 1826?-1869, artist, 1859. 1 print : woodcut, color ; 35.8 x 23.7 cm

Tako Collection: Matsuchiyama Shodengu Temple / Imado-bashi Bridge, Tokyo

Matsuchiyama Shodengu Temple / Imado-bashi Bridge, Tokyo
Matsuchiyama Shodengu Temple / Imado-bashi Bridge, Asakusa, Tokyo (formerly Edo/Yedo) - print after Utagawa Hiroshige Date: circa 1820

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"Tako: A Journey through Art and Culture" Step into the world of "tako, " a word that holds various meanings and interpretations. From its literal translation as "octopus" to its symbolic representation in art, tako takes us on a captivating journey through time. In the late 19th century, artist Kobayashi Kiyochika captured the essence with his woodcut print titled "Tako no asirai, " depicting an octopus treading gracefully. The intricate details and vibrant colors bring this aquatic creature to life, showcasing Kiyochika's mastery of his craft. But tako is not limited to just one form. In another woodcut print titled "Tako ni noboru otoko, " we witness a young boy flying a kite against the backdrop of Enshu Fukuroi. This artwork from between 1830 and 1870 showcases how they are be seen as a symbol of freedom and joy, as the boy soars high above with his colorful kite. Beyond art, it also finds its place in Japanese culture. Matsuchiyama Shodengu Temple near Imado-bashi Bridge in Tokyo stands tall as a testament to the spiritual significance associated with this creature. Visitors flock here seeking blessings for prosperity and good fortune, believing that tako brings luck into their lives. As we delve deeper into the enigmatic world of tako, we discover its multifaceted nature - from being an intriguing subject for artists like Kiyochika to becoming intertwined with cultural practices at temples like Matsuchiyama Shodengu. So next time you encounter an octopus or come across artworks portraying them, remember that there is more than meets the eye. Tako represents not only beauty but also symbolism deeply rooted in Japanese history and tradition – it invites us to explore further and unravel its secrets within art and culture alike.