Red and Gold Origami Crane

Ira Blount · late 20th-early 21st Century

In Japan, the crane symbolizes good luck, longevity, and fidelity. This origami crane is folded on a red sheet of paper featuring a metallic gold geometric design known as the asanoha, or hemp leaf pattern. Here, traditional symbolism and artist Ira Blount’s hope—that his artwork will “lift…spirits”—combine to create a delicate and graceful origami bird.