The Moon Rabbit a mythical figure in Far Eastern folklore that is based on the identification of the dark markings on the near side of the moon as a rabbit or hare. The folklore originated in China and later spread to other Asian cultures. The rabbit was seen as pounding with a mortar and pestle, but the contents of the mortar differ in many Asian cultures. In Chinese folklore, the rabbit is portrayed as a companion of the Moon goddess Chang'e, constantly pounding the elixir of life for her and making cakes/rice cakes as the contents of the mortar. Some other stories in China believe that the rabbit pounds medicine for the mortals, some including the creation of mooncakes.
The Moon rabbit legend is popular and part of local folklore throughout Asia, and this legend also gave rise to the Mid-Autumn Festivals of China. The tradition of celebrating the Harvest Moon came to Japan from China in the Heian Period (794-1185), and nowadays, people would gather outdoors under the full moon and recite poetry, play music, and enjoy seasonal dishes. As a popular holiday, the legend is still remembered to this day.
Moon Rabbit Pen Folk Art Drawing:
Drew a moon rabbit in a cloudy night under a golden moon. Used black gel pen, watercolor paper, copic markers. Drawn with precision and technique.
Handcrafted by Claire Yiwen Li
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