Taoist amulet, protective pendant of the black turtle (Xuanwu), northern constellation. Silver 925 punched, copper.

Taoist amulet,
protective pendant of the black turtle (Xuanwu), northern constellation.
Silver 925 punched,
copper.

As a gemologist graduated from the National Institute of Gemmology (ING Paris), all our subjects are expert and authentic.

Pendant dimension: 35mm high by 20mm wide
Weight of 12 grams

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To discover our entire shop, please click on this link
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THE BLACK TURTLE
The Black Turtle (Chinese: 玄武; pinyin: Xuánwǔ) is one of the four symbols of the Chinese constellations. Despite its English name, it is usually depicted as a turtle embraced with a snake. The name 玄武 used in East Asian languages does not mention any animals; the alternative name "Black Warrior" is a more faithful translation. It is known as Xuanwu in Chinese.

It represents the north and the winter season, so it is sometimes called Xuanwu (black turtle, bed. Black Warrior) from the North (Chinese: 北方玄武; pinyin: Běifāng Xuánwǔ).

In Japan, it is called Genbu. He is said to protect Kyoto from the north side, being one of the four guardian spirits that protect the city. It is represented by Kenkun Shrine, located atop Mount Funaoka in Kyoto.

The creature's name is identical to that of the important Taoist god Xuanwu, who is sometimes (as in Journey to the West) depicted in the company of a turtle and a snake.

During the Han Dynasty, people often wore jade pendants in the shape of turtles. Due to the ancient Chinese influence on Japan, honorary titles and insignia in Japan also often referred to the turtle.

The northern gates of Chinese palaces were often named after the Xuanwu. The most famous, the Xuanwu Gate Incident, where Li Shimin killed his brothers Jiancheng and Yuanji and took power in a coup, took place at the Northern Gate of Taiji Palace, north of Chang'an.

In ancient China, the turtle and snake were considered spiritual creatures symbolizing longevity. The custom of the Min people to build turtle-shaped tombs may have to do with the desire to place the tomb under the influence of the black turtle.