feather

Every August, our peacock moults and leaves his feathers strewn around the garden. I took some into work today in case anybody wanted one. Not all the feathers have eyes on - some are strong and rust coloured and perfect for making quill pens. Others from the top of the wings look like the one in this photo. 

Some people are superstitious about having peacock feathers in the house, believing they not only bring bad luck but that unmarried ladies will end up as old maids. This is thought to have originated in countries around the Mediterranean, where the feathers are said to portray the evil eye of the she-devil Lilith who is responsible for the unexplained deaths of children.

IN India, China and japan, however, bringing peacock feathers indoors is supposed to increase good luck by providing extra eyes around the house to protect the occupants from danger.

We have lots and lots of peacock feathers in our house. I don't believe in luck, I just think they're beautiful.