歴史のある文様で、奈良時代に中国から伝わり、平安時代に有職文様として公家装束などに取り入れられたところから、広く知られるようになったといわれています。「蝶」の中国語での発音が、80歳を意味する語と同じ音であることから、長寿の象徴とされてきたようです。

This pattern, with a rich history, originated from China during the Nara period and gained widespread recognition when incorporated into court costumes as a formal motif during the Heian period. The motif is said to have become well-known through its adoption by the aristocracy.

The pronunciation of the word "蝶" (butterfly) in Chinese is similar to the word meaning "80 years old." Due to this linguistic connection, butterflies have been symbolically associated with longevity.

Obi fabrics with this Japanese pattern from the obico selection