By Israa Ali
KUWAIT, Jan 21 (KUNA) -- Kuwait marks on Thursday the 59th anniversary of the adoption of the current state emblem by the 11th Amir of Kuwait late Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah.
The emblem of Kuwait includes a golden falcon with outspread wings embracing a dhow (boom) sailing on blue and white waves with the full name of the state written (in Arabic) at the top and a large national flag at the bottom. The sailing dhow is a symbol of Kuwait's maritime tradition.
The current and third emblem of Kuwait was first introduced in 1956 and officially adopted by the cabinet in 1963 to replace the second emblem which comprised 'a helmet with a falcon and two intersecting flags over it and was in use since 1940.
The first emblem of Kuwait was adopted in 1921 till 1940 with the simple design of two crossed flags.
The present emblem was carefully designed to reflect the two main life environments and historic traditions of Kuwaiti people; the maritime and desert ones.
The sea waves and sailing ship represent the marine environment, especially Kuwait's sea trade and historic tradition of diving for pearls, which was the main source of livelihood for Kuwaitis in the past.
The desert, symbolized by the golden falcon, represents Kuwait's geographic characteristics and its desert life and traditions.
The emblem is a log or seal reserved for use by the state as a symbol of it. It used also a seal put on official papers and documents and is printed on national bank notes. (end) aja.ibi