tomoe

Tomoe" (巴) is a Japanese abstract shape resembling a comma or the usual form of a magatama (a curved, pear-shaped object).  It's a common design element in family crests (mon) and corporate logos.  It appears in designs with various uses, often in groups of one to four, but most commonly three.  Three tomoe are known as "mitsudomoe" (三つ巴).  The mitsudomoe symbol is a trinity of cosmic forces—earth, water, and sky, representing balance, unity, and harmony.  Tomoe Gozen: Tomoe Gozen (巴御前) was a female samurai mentioned in "The Tale of the Heike".  She is considered one of Japan's rare female warriors who engaged in offensive battle, known as onna musha.  While often depicted with a naginata (a traditional "woman's weapon"), her weapons of choice were actually the long sword and the bow and arrow.  Her story has become partially mythologized, and she is more of a legendary figure than a truly historical one.  Other uses: "Tomoe" can also refer to the paper "Tomoe River Paper", which is known for its smooth surface and suitability for fountain pens and other writing mediums.  There are also fictional characters named "Tomoe", such as Mami Tomoe from "Puella Magi Madoka Magica" and Tomoe Tsurugi from "Miraculous Ladybug".  Tomoe Shinohara is a Japanese singer, actress, fashion designer, producer and artist.