1.
family crest; family emblem
A hereditary emblem used to identify a Japanese family, clan, or household. Originating in the Heian period, family crests feature stylized designs based on plants, animals, geometric shapes, or other motifs. They appear on formal clothing, tombstones, and traditional items.
Cultural note
家紋 appear on formal kimono (紋付), gravestones, 提灯 (paper lanterns) and family heirlooms. Common motifs include 桐 (paulownia), 菊 (chrysanthemum) and 梅 (plum blossom). Samurai families used them to identify themselves in battle; today they are seen mostly at weddings, funerals and other formal occasions.