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| Art Nouveau Galle Dragon Fly Table- Design Tuscano |
Dragonflies have been a part of mythology and folklore across many cultures for centuries. In Western cultures, they are often associated with change and transformation, while in Eastern cultures, they represent good luck and prosperity. Let’s explore how the dragonfly has been a part of different cultures and its significance in modern movements.
In Ancient Greece, dragonflies were associated with the goddess of love, Aphrodite, who was often depicted with a dragonfly by her side. It was believed that dragonflies would bring blessings of love into the lives of those they visited.
In Native American culture, dragonflies were considered to be messengers of change, and they were believed to bring messages from the spirit world. They were also believed to represent swift and agile movement, and were often used as symbols of strength and power.
In Japan, dragonflies are a symbol of courage and happiness. During the Samurai period, they were associated with strength, agility, and speed. Dragonflies are still considered an important symbol in modern Japan, representing autumn and the changing of the seasons.
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| Japanese Helmet Surmounted by Dragonfly |
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/27591
Dragonflies were also a main symbol used in art nouveau. Their image was scattered throughout many pieces of art, drawings, furniture, lampshades and buildings.
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| Lalique Dragonfly Brooch |
In many cultures, dragonflies are also associated with the concept of death and rebirth. The dragonfly is believed to be a symbol of the soul, able to travel to and from the spirit world. In this sense, they represent transformation and the inevitable changes of life.
In the modern-day, the dragonfly has become a symbol of hope and resilience. The Dragonfly Project, a nonprofit organization, uses the dragonfly as a symbol of remembrance for those who have died by suicide. The organization encourages individuals to create and decorate dragonflies in honor of those they have lost. In the movie Dragonfly (2002) with Kevin Costner, the dragonfly was a symbol of a messenger from beyond the grave, the attempt of a loved one trying to communicate a very crucial message to the star actor.
The Dragonfly has significance for me as I deal with issues of balance. Our world is off balance, our consumption is voracious. But unlike the Dragonfly's consumption of insects that keeps an ecological balance, or its presence as a measure of a healthy ecology; we are off balance, destroying what we need to sustain a healthy life.
The dragonfly is a meaningful, powerful symbol that has been a part of different cultures throughout history. From its significance in ancient mythology to its use as a symbol of strength and hope in modern-day movements, the dragonfly represents change, transformation, and resilience.
Check out my merch with Dragonflies here
Dragonfly Tote Bag Weekender Tote Bag
Dragonfly Coffee Mug Dragonfly T-Shirt
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