What is the meaning behind Tatsumiya's logo design
The "Tatsumiya" logo design incorporates the concept of the "Three, Five, Seven" brushstrokes, rooted in the merchant culture of the Edo period. The "brushstroke" refers to the final sweeping motion of a character written with a brush, valued not only for its aesthetic beauty but also as a symbol of fortune enhancement.
- What is the "Three, Five, Seven" Brushstroke?
Edo-period merchants believed that by dividing the brushstrokes into three, five, or seven strokes, they could create a flow of good fortune and prosperity. This practice was highly valued in Japanese tradition and was reflected in signage, account books, and contracts.
"Three": Symbolizes stability and harmony, wishing for steady business growth.
"Five": Represents development and new opportunities, fostering business expansion.
"Seven": The luckiest odd number, associated with success and prosperity.
- The Meaning Behind the "Tatsumiya" Logo
The "Tatsumiya" logo is designed with the "Three, Five, Seven" brushstroke philosophy in mind. The dynamic strokes and flow of the characters do not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also embody the wishes of Osaka merchants for business success.
"Tatsu" (辰): The bold strokes symbolize prosperity flowing from the past to the future.
"Mi" (巳): The elegant curves represent the fluid growth of business.
"Ya" (屋): The final sweeping stroke conveys the intent for enduring connections and success.
- Edo-Era Merchant Stories and "Tatsumiya"
Such symbolic brushstroke traditions were widely practiced among Edo-period merchants.
- Episode 1: Edo's Kimono Shops and the "Seven Brushstrokes"
Edo's famous kimono merchant Echigoya (now Mitsukoshi) used seven brushstrokes in its signage to wish for long-lasting prosperity, inspired by the belief that fabric should continue to be woven and sold for generations.
- Episode 2: Osaka's Rice Merchants and the "Three Brushstrokes"
In Osaka's rice markets, prominent merchants would write the character for "gold" (金) with three brushstrokes as a superstition to ensure a continuous inflow of wealth.
- Episode 3: Edo’s Soba Restaurants and the "Five Brushstrokes"
Popular soba restaurants deliberately incorporated five brushstrokes into their shop names, symbolizing good fortune and strong customer relationships.
- Conclusion
The "Tatsumiya" logo design is not merely about visual beauty—it integrates the "Three, Five, Seven" brushstroke philosophy cherished by Edo-period merchants. It carries the aspirations for long-lasting business success, prosperity, and expanding good relationships.
By inheriting the wisdom of Edo-era merchants, "Tatsumiya" continues this spirit into the modern era, expressing these values through its logo.