Tigers

Definition

Tigers are large, carnivorous mammals belonging to the Panthera genus, recognized for their distinctive orange coat with black stripes. In East Asian art, tigers symbolize power, strength, and bravery, often serving as protective figures in various cultural narratives, especially in China, Japan, and Korea.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Chinese culture, the tiger is one of the 12 zodiac animals and is often associated with the Year of the Tiger, representing courage and ambition.
2. Tigers are often depicted in traditional art as guardians against evil spirits, especially in paintings and sculptures found in temples and palaces.
3. Japanese folklore includes stories of tiger spirits known as 'tora,' which are believed to protect against disasters and misfortune.
4. In Korean culture, tigers were historically considered the 'king of beasts' and are featured prominently in folk tales and art as symbols of power.
5. Tigers are a common motif in East Asian textiles, ceramics, and woodblock prints, reflecting their cultural significance across different societies.

Review Questions

• How do tigers function as symbols within East Asian art, particularly in relation to power and protection?
  • Tigers serve as potent symbols in East Asian art, representing power, strength, and protection. In various cultural narratives, they are depicted as guardians against evil spirits or misfortune. This symbolism is prevalent in Chinese art where tigers are associated with bravery and ambition, while in Japanese folklore, they act as protective spirits. The depiction of tigers in art not only reflects their physical characteristics but also embodies cultural values surrounding strength and resilience.
• Discuss the variations in tiger symbolism across Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cultures within their respective artistic traditions.
  • The symbolism of tigers varies across Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cultures. In China, tigers symbolize courage and are part of the zodiac system. In Japanese culture, they represent protective spirits that ward off disaster. In Korea, tigers are seen as kings of beasts and are often portrayed in folk tales as powerful figures. Each culture incorporates tigers into their artistic expressions differently while maintaining a common theme of strength and guardianship.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural perceptions of tigers on their representation in East Asian art during historical periods.
  • Cultural perceptions of tigers have significantly influenced their representation in East Asian art throughout history. As symbols of strength and protection, tigers were commonly featured in royal artifacts to convey power and authority. Their depiction evolved during different historical periods—during times of turmoil, they were often shown as fierce protectors against chaos. Conversely, during peaceful eras, they were illustrated more playfully or symbolically. This dynamic reflects broader societal attitudes toward power and resilience within these cultures across time.

Related terms

Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities; in this context, tigers symbolize strength and protection.

Shinto: The indigenous spirituality of Japan, which often includes reverence for natural elements and animals, including tigers.

Buddhism: A spiritual tradition that encompasses a variety of beliefs and practices largely based on teachings attributed to the Buddha, where tigers can represent ferocity and protection.