Kanji for Loyalty Bushido Code Calligraphy Poster

Description

This kanji for loyalty calligraphy is comprised of two characters that are pronounced ‘chuugi’ and represent loyalty and the sense of duty that goes with that. It’s one of the eight principles of Bushido, the way of the warrior, the code of moral principles that samurai lived by.

Of all of the principles of the bushido philosophy, loyalty is perhaps the one that most often comes to mind in the west. This is understandable as perhaps as it should be, as the samurai were part of in a feudal system that rewarded allegiance and punishment for even a perceived lack of devotion was sometimes swift and harsh.

As members of the warrior class, the samurai were bound to this fidelity in obvious, codified ways, and without such loyalty as its foundation, all of the other virtues that comprise the bushido warrior code would likely be diminished.  In so much as loyalty involves submitting oneself to something or someone else, it includes an intrinsic element of humility and obedience.

If you browse our collection of calligraphy art based on the other precepts of the samurai honor code, you’ll notice that the second of the two characters here, pronounced gi, is also featured on its own as another one of the virtues, that of justice.  As such, this kanji has the distinction of being the only character that appears twice in this context.

Brush artist Hiro created this work at his studio in Kyoto by hand. Then we scanned it for use here. It’s also featured on this short bushido code kanji quiz.

The black kanji characters contrast well with a white base, and the likeness of Hiro’s red name stamp in the lower left corner adds a dash of color that brings this design to life.  Its simple flair and the history behind it make this work a distinctive piece of wall art that’s just right for spaces with a minimalist decor, be it modern or more folk inspired.

Are you looking for downloadable digital kanji art? In addition to the print option, this poster is now available as an instant download, too! We offer this kanji for loyalty design as well as the other seven principles, each on its own, on postcards, keychains, magnets and mugs as well as posters in our zazzle shop.

See more bushido code kanji calligraphy art posters here:

• Jisei 自制 Self-control
• Yuu 勇 Courage
• Makoto 誠 Honesty
• Meiyo 名誉 Honor
• Gi 義 Justice
• Rei 礼 Respect
• Jin 仁 Benevolence

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