The hexagon is a shape that is present in many things. It is found in nature, such as the honeycomb cells built by bees, and in man-made objects, such as soccer balls and car parts. The hexagons distinct shape is made up of six sides, each of which is the same length.
The hexagon was known as far back as ancient Egypt, where it appears in many of the tombs built by pharaohs and the pyramids. The hexagons symmetrical design was thought to represent harmony and balance. In mathematics, the hexagon is used to calculate areas and distances. Its lengthy sides and interior angles can easily be manipulated to fit any kind of geometry equation.
For many people, the hexagon is more than just a shape. The symbol is often seen as a sign of strength and unity. The six equal sides of the hexagon have come to represent the bond of brotherhood, loyalty and protection. This has been adopted in military units, sports teams and fraternities.
The hexagon can also be meaningful in different cultures. In Asian countries such as Japan and China, the hexagon is connected to the six directions of the universe — up, down, left, right, front and back. Additionally, the shape is claimed to be a protective energy force, and is used in Feng Shui and other forms of spiritual practices.
As a stand-alone shape, the hexagon has been featured in several works of art. The most famous example is probably Hokusais The Great Wave off Kanagawa. This iconic Japanese print has become a symbol for the beauty of nature. Another famous artwork that features the hexagon is M.C. Eschers Liberation of a Hexagon, which has been hailed as one of the most complex works of tessellation art ever created.
The hexagon is also a present in a variety of everyday items. Hexagon-shaped tiles are often used in flooring, while the shape has been used to create many kinds of machinery and gadgets. In particular, hexagonal screws and bolts are very popular because their distinguishing shape allows them to be easily tightened or loosened.
Overall, the hexagon has been a source of fascination for centuries. Its strong shape, versatile usage and symbolic significance has found its way into architecture, mathematics, culture and art. Whether used as a simple geometric shape or a representation of strength, the hexagon has proven to be one of the most complex and enduring symbols that we see every day.