Pray for the Preying Mantis

As in most cultures, symbolism and art go hand in hand. No more is this true than in Asian societies. The Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, etc have developed art forms that try to capture the spirit of religion or folklore sometimes with only the minimalist of representation. In fact, art forms like bonsai were practiced to do exactly that capture the spirit of nature within a miniaturized plant. While Asian societies are often based on the group, as opposed to the individual, using their decorative and functional art was a way to express their individuality while still connecting to the whole. The Japanese Samurai used netsuke, sagemono (objects hanging off the obi), and most importantly their sword and sword fittings to express themselves. The following is hoped to give some insight and provide some explanations into a particular area of sword fittings that I have chosen to collect- The Preying/Praying Mantis. 

The Japanese culture has been greatly influenced by the Chinese and Chinese legends. Many of these Chinese legends have meshed into Japanese society’s consciousness and therefore have been adopted in their art.[1] I have found several stories/symbolisms relating to the Preying Mantis (kamakiri in Japanese) that can be demonstrated in sword fittings (tsuba, fuchi, kashira, kozuka, and menuki) in my personal collection. The subject matter spans centuries, styles, and schools, including sukashi and kinko work.

[1] Please note: I found multiple versions of most of these legends and when not specifically cited, I have tried to select the best-illustrated example and not be hindered by the differences in detail.