Carp among lotus leaves

Carp (Koi)
This is perhaps the primary symbol of courage, perseverance, and indomitable determination. Its entire symbolism is built on the ancient legend of the carp that persistently swam against the current of the Yellow River to overcome a waterfall known as the “Dragon’s Gate.”
​As a reward for its incredible perseverance, the gods transformed it into a dragon. Therefore, the carp is a symbol of achieving the highest goal against all odds, as well as success in business, career, and a high reputation. It represents a warrior who does not give up.
​Lotus (Hasu)
The lotus is a symbol of absolute purity and spiritual enlightenment.
​Its main metaphor is that it grows from murky, muddy water yet emerges on the surface in flawless, unstained beauty.
​It represents the soul passing through the hardships and temptations of the material world, yet remaining pure, untouched, and striving for the light. In Buddhism, it is one of the primary symbols of enlightenment.
​The Composition as a Whole
By combining the carp and the lotus, you create a wonderfully harmonious and multi-layered narrative.
​It is not just a story of success (the Carp), but of success achieved with pure intentions (the Lotus).
​It is an image of how a person, like the carp, struggles against life’s difficulties (the “muddy water” from which the lotus grows) and ultimately achieves their goal (transforms into a “dragon”), all while maintaining spiritual purity and remaining unstained (like the lotus flower).
​This is a composition about the triumph of the spirit, about achieving a goal not at any cost, but through perseverance while preserving one’s inner light and purity.

Lacquered Manju netsuke “Carp among lotus leaves” was made in Takamakie on Roiro-nuri, the relieves were done with Takamakie technique with Sabi and Sumiko-Urushi and Ikkaki-Urush, Gold Marufun, gold and silver Hiramefun. 5.2 cm across. 2020. Moldova, private collection