"Winter Courtship"
​
24 inches tall by 36 inches wide
Limited Edition Metal Print
$850

---

"Winter Courtship"

© Caroline Young, All Rights Reserved

---

    In Japanese, Chinese, and Korean traditions, the Red-crowned crane stands for good fortune, longevity, and marital fidelity.  The Japanese refer to it as "the bird of happiness", and the Chinese as "heavenly crane" believing it is a symbol of wisdom.  In the past, cranes were common all over Japan, but today they can only be found in Hokkaido.  Feeding grounds were established here so these birds could be given food to survive the harsh winters from November to late March.  During these times, the cranes gather to find their mating partners.  The mating ritual is a sight to behold.  They bend their necks, acknowledge each other, and extend their bodies.  The elegance of their dance is spellbinding.  Winters in Hokkaido may be frigid, but their love for each other keeps them warm.