Nishikigoi

The name, “Nishikigoi” was a term first used as far back as 200 years ago in a village from the Niigata prefecture in Japan.

The first Nishikigoi was produced by farmers breeding black carp (or Magoi) as a food source to survive severe winter weather conditions, the result born from this was a vibrantly colored carp with an admirable figure that stood out from the rest with its rare beauty. As awareness grew, many started to appreciate Nishikigoi as a fine work of art.

Koi is a homophone for another word that means “affection” or “love” in Japanese; koi are symbols of love and friendship in Japan among many other symbols.

Known as the Nishikigoi pattern Nishiki “swimming (or living) jewel”, the unique name for this koi fish comes from the Japanese word “Nishiki” which traditionally means beautiful or elegant things.

As the concept of this “living jewelry” expanded, the koi soon began to symbolize success, ambition, perseverance, and advancement in life. It is said that to be a Nishikigoi is to be a fish that succeeds in life.

4000 x 6000 px
300 Dpi
by Samanta, 2024