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Chrysanthemums

The chrysanthemum (kiku in Japanese), which also appears in the hanafuda card deck, begins blooming in September, when much of Japan is still unbearably hot.  Originally imported from China more than a thousand years ago, the chrysanthemum, like the peony, was first used for medicinal purposes.  Later, the yellow flower, with its radiant pedals, was compared to the sun and admired during fall chysantheum-viewing parties where participants drank wine made from the flowers.  For a country whose imperial line is descended from the Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu, the chrysanthemum was a perfect fit.  In the early 13th century, Emperor Go-Toba became enamored with the flower and had its motifs emblazoned on his kimono as well as his sword.



With its lengthy autumn bloom season, it's perennial flowers, and its medicinal properties, the chrysanthemum symbolized long life, making it a perfect flower for an emperor intending a lengthy reign.  In the 14th century, Emperor Go-Diago used the chrysanthemum on his banners, cementing the flower's imperial status.  The japanese emperor, the oldest hereditary line in the world, today sits on the Chrysanthemum Throne, bears the Chrysanthemum Crest as a royal seal, and gives out the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum as the country's highest royal honor.  All of these associations, from the longevous and mythological to the noble and nationalistic, have made the chrysanthemum a popular motif in Japanese tattoos.  The flower is also used in funeral services in Japan, which is why it isn't typically given as a gift.  It's also why some who live their lives on the edge get chrysanthemum irezumi, preparing themselves for death at a moment's notice.

Hokusai


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