mon (Japanese crest)

E49989

The mon (Japanese crest) is a traditional heraldic emblem used in Japan to represent families, individuals, institutions, and organizations, often featuring stylized natural or geometric motifs.

Aliases (1)

Statements (49)
Predicate Object
instanceOf cultural practice
heraldic emblem
symbol
alsoKnownAs kamon
monshō
appearsOn banners
curtains
flags
formal garments
gravestones
kimono
lacquerware
temple architecture
associatedWith Japanese nobility
samurai class
commonMotif animals
celestial bodies
flowers
geometric patterns
plants
countryOfOrigin Japan
culturalSignificance marker of lineage and identity in Japan
describedAs traditional heraldic emblem used in Japan
developedFrom courtly decorative motifs
differsFrom European coats of arms
function brand-like logo
family identification
institutional emblem
status symbol
governs design conventions such as symmetry
use of circular frames
hasSubtype clan crest
corporate crest
family crest
historicalUse decoration of armor
decoration of banners
decoration of clothing
decoration of household goods
identification in battle
relatedTo European heraldry
timePeriod Heian period
typicalMotifs geometric motifs
stylized natural motifs
usedBy families
individuals
institutions
organizations
usedIn Japan
writingSystem Japanese

Referenced by (2)
Subject (surface form when different) Predicate
mon (Japanese crest) ("monshō")
alsoKnownAs
Imperial Seal of Japan
emblemType

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