Agehanochō Japanese Symbols Necklace

A symbol of the Taira clan, Agehanochō is the swallowtail butterfly crest of the family. The Taira clan itself consisted of members who were bestowed this title by the emperors during the Heian period. It was given to ex-members of the imperial family once they became royal subjects. Descendants of many different imperial families were given the title of Taira. This was one of the four clans that dominated Japanese politics during the Heian period. Many other clans traced their history back to the Taira clan to solidify their own royal heritage and keep their high status.