Uroko: the scale pattern that protects
Make a Uroko wallpaper in your colors
At a glance
| Japanese name | 鱗 (うろこ, Uroko) |
|---|---|
| Motif | Scales of a snake or dragon |
| Wish it carries | Protection from misfortune |
| Season | All year |
| Where you see it | Noh costumes, charms, sashes |
What it looks like
Uroko is a field of triangles set point to point, like the scales of a snake, fish or dragon. Traditionally it is drawn in two colors so that the triangles alternate light and dark.
History
Triangle patterns are among the oldest designs in Japan. In Noh theater, robes with this pattern are worn by characters who turn into serpents or demons, so the design carries a dramatic, powerful image. A crest of three triangles is also associated with the Hōjō family of the Kamakura period.
What it means
Scales protect the body, so uroko became a charm against misfortune and bad spirits. It was sometimes used for clothing worn in an unlucky year of life.
How it is drawn
Start with a grid of equilateral triangles and shift each row by half a triangle. In the maker a smaller triangle is drawn inside each one, which gives you space to color in two tones if you print it.
Ways to use it
Red and gold looks strong and lucky. Indigo is classic. Green and white is fresh and works well for spring.
- Open the maker with Uroko already selected.
- Pick one of the color sets, or choose your own ground and line colors.
- Choose a size: phone, desktop, video call, square or A4 print.
- Download it as a PNG, or as an SVG if you want to edit or print it at any size.