[Chrysanthemum]

Description

Stunning woodblock from the famous series, Keika hyakugiku or & One Hundred Chrysanthemums by Keika Hasegawa.

Chrysanthemums came to Japan from China around the 8th century A.D., and the Emperor adopted the 16-petalled flower, or Ichimonjiginu, as the crest and official seal. The Imperial throne of Japan is referred to as the Chrysanthemum Throne. Regarded as a symbol of the sun, perfection, and long life, the chrysanthemum is celebrated by the Japanese during the annual Festival of Happiness held in November. Keika Hasegawa was active from 1893 to 1905, is best known for this series of chrysanthemums and was influenced by earlier Japanese botanical studies (kacho-e) and the introduction of the Pre-Raphaelite movement to Japan.

From: Hasewawa, K. Keika Hyaku Kiku or & 100 Chrysanthemums. Ppublisher Yamada Naosaburo, Kyoto, Japan.

Collections:
National Gallery Victoria: Accession Number AS5-1992
British Museum London: Museum number 1973,0723,0.77
Smithsonian Institution: ocn182683120