This is my family crest,
Go (five) Shichi (seven) no (of) Kiri (Empress tree)
This symbol is made with the Seven flower buds at the center and five flower buds at each side of an Empress Tree leaf. This flowering tree is not so common here in the U.S. I have added picture at the top left side so you may see what it looks like.
This symbol is known as the Toyotomi Family`s symbol as well. My family did not tell me about the details. I had found it on the gravestone of my families' plot. It is alos seen on the formal Kimonos of my Father and Mother.
It has also been used for the Royal Japanese familys' (Government) symbol since olden times and was it given to some Buke (Samurai families) such as the Lord Toyotomi from the Royal family. Lord Toyotomi passed it on to his retainers.
"Go-Shichi-no-Kiri" had spread to many of families since that time. Also, there are 140 similar kind of "Kiri" Family crests in existance.
The Empress Tree is used to make luxury Japanese furniture, also such fine things as the Koto, Oni masks, and luxury boxes for precious items. It is known as a holy tree that the Phoenix Fenghuang loves to come and rest in, according to Asian mythology.
This Tenugui (classic Japanese cotton hand towel) was made by my daughter. She printed the symbol and then cut it out.
She then stenciled it with white ink, and though it looks easy, in actuality making the stencil pattern is the hardest part of the project. However, she really enjoys that. She also made lots of Original tote bags with her favorite patterns.
-----Go Shichi no Kiri
My Ka-mon, (family crest)
