Arrow Hits the Mark T-Shirt

【mato-ni-atari-ya】Target crest. The word 'mato' (target) means 'goal' or 'circular shape.' It was used as a symbol of good luck for store names and trademarks, originating from the target used in archery and gun shooting. It became a formalized crest in the early modern period (according to 'Japanese Crests' edited by Ito Kosaku). The target pattern used in designs is believed to have originated from the shape of the target used in yabusame (Japanese horseback archery), which is a square with its corners standing. It is thought to have become a family crest due to its martial significance and the auspicious meaning of 'hitting the mark' for merchants (according to 'Encyclopedia of Family Crests' by Takazawa Hitoshi).