The Zodiac (eto) is widely used in calligraphy as an element that adds deep meaning to artworks. Originating in ancient China, the Zodiac forms a 60-year cycle composed of a combination of the Ten Heavenly Stems (Jikkan) and the Twelve Earthly Branches (Junishi). This system developed into a calendar to record years, months, and events, and it was later incorporated into the world of calligraphy. It is now used alongside signatures (chop marks) to indicate the year of creation in artworks.
The Origin of the Zodiac and the Myth of the Twelve Animals
The origin of the Zodiac dates back to ancient China, with the Twelve Animals being closely linked to various legends and myths. One famous myth explains how the animals were selected. According to the story, the gods called all the animals together and announced that the order in which they arrived on New Year’s Day would determine their position in the Zodiac. The animals then raced, and the order of the Twelve Animals was established as follows:
- Rat (Ne) – The smallest rat rode on the back of the ox and jumped off just before the finish line to become first.
- Ox (Ushi) – The diligent ox was second, having been overtaken by the rat.
- Tiger (Tora) – The powerful tiger arrived third.
- Rabbit (Usagi) – The light-footed rabbit came fourth.
- Dragon (Tatsu) – The dragon, capable of flying, seemed likely to finish first, but helped other animals and came in fifth.
- Snake (Mi) – The clever snake surprised the horse and slid into sixth place.
- Horse (Uma) – After being startled, the horse regained composure and finished seventh.
- Goat (Hitsuji) – The cooperative goat finished eighth.
- Monkey (Saru) – The dexterous monkey climbed trees, arriving ninth.
- Rooster (Tori) – The flying rooster quickly reached tenth place.
- Dog (Inu) – The dog took time to swim, finishing eleventh.
- Pig (I) – The pig rushed ahead, arriving last in twelfth place.
This myth explains why each animal in the Zodiac is associated with different traits and symbolism.
The Role of the Zodiac in Calligraphy
An Element That Marks the Completion of a Work
In calligraphy, there is a tradition of adding a signature or seal, known as a “rakkan,” to mark the completion of a work. By adding the Zodiac sign, the year of creation is clearly indicated. For example, writing “Kōshi Year XX Calligraphy” lets people know that the work was created in the Kōshi year, which is useful for later appraisal or evaluation.
Furthermore, incorporating the Zodiac into the work adds a sense of depth beyond just a signature. By including the Zodiac along with a pen name or seasonal reference, the calligraphy takes on a more profound impression.
The Format of Zodiac and Rakkan
In rakkan, besides the signature, a pen name and seal are typically used. The Zodiac is also included to represent the specific year. Here are two examples:
- Simple Format: “Reiwa 6, Kōtatsu Spring XX Calligraphy” → Adding the era name, Zodiac, and season makes the time period clear.
- Detailed Format: “Shōwa 62, Tei-u, Mōshun XX Calligraphy” → The Zodiac sign, Tei-u, along with the seasonal reference (Mōshun = early spring), provides a more detailed timestamp.
Including the Zodiac and seasons in the signature elevates the work’s elegance and conveys the background of the artwork to the viewer.
Examples of Calligraphy Works Using the Zodiac
Many calligraphy works use the Zodiac as a theme. By writing large characters or words based on the animals of the Zodiac, these works are often created to wish for prosperity in that year. For example, in the year of the Rat, words like “Rat,” “Mouse,” and “Prosperity” might be used, and in the year of the Ox, words like “Ox,” “Bull,” and “Diligence” would be common.
Zodiac-themed calligraphy also often appears on New Year’s cards, where the animals are drawn alongside words or poetry that relate to the year, adding depth and beauty to the work.
Things to Consider When Adding the Zodiac
- Balance with the Pen Name: The position and size of the Zodiac should be balanced with the signature and pen name. If the Zodiac is too large or placed incorrectly, the harmony of the entire artwork will be disrupted.
- Combination with the Seal: It is customary to use a seal along with a Zodiac-themed signature. The type and size of the seal should also be chosen carefully to complement the work. Using both red and white seals in the right places adds to the overall quality of the piece.
- Respect for Traditional Expression: When using the Zodiac in calligraphy, it’s important to follow traditional forms and rules. For instance, if using someone else’s poem or phrase, instead of writing “XX Calligraphy,” the term “XX Lin” (copy) should be used.
Stories Related to the Zodiac and Calligraphy
There are many fascinating anecdotes related to calligraphy using the Zodiac. For example, when a famous calligrapher added the Zodiac to their rakkan, a significant event related to that Zodiac was later discovered, which increased the value of the work. Some calligraphers also have custom seals that incorporate the Zodiac, using a different seal each year to add uniqueness to their work.
Furthermore, the Zodiac can represent not only the year but also months and days, allowing for more detailed records of when a work was completed. This level of detail is particularly emphasized for important or commemorative works.
The Modern Use of the Zodiac in Calligraphy
Today, calligraphy featuring the Zodiac is popular as a decoration or gift for the New Year. During this time, it is common to write phrases or poetry inspired by the Zodiac animal of the year, to be displayed at home or in workplaces as a way of wishing for good fortune throughout the year.
In calligraphy classes and workshops, the creation of works centered around the Zodiac is also a popular theme, helping to spread the charm of calligraphy through these traditional symbols.
Conclusion
The Zodiac in calligraphy is not just a calendar element; it adds depth and charm to a piece. By including the Zodiac in a rakkan, one can not only clarify when the work was created but also convey the thoughts and feelings of that year. By incorporating the Zodiac into calligraphy, one can create works that both preserve and enhance traditional culture, adding greater depth and significance to the artwork.
Next time you create a calligraphy piece, try incorporating the Zodiac to express the unique charm of that year.
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