Seasons
Japan has four distinct seasons, and the changing of the seasons
is welcomed and celebrated. Hanami, or cherry
blossom viewing parties, take place all over Japan. People
gather with friends and family to picnic under the cherry
blossoms. There are also full moon, autumn leaves, and snow
viewing parties.
Flowers in
Art
Ikebana (flower arranging) is a common hobby.
Nature is often the main subject in poetry and is prominent
in literature and art too. Many of the items in this
exhibition, from kimono and inrō to sword guards and tea
caddies, are decorated with flowers, trees, landscapes and other
natural motives.
Flowers and trees can be featured in art for their symbolic
meaning. The pine branches on the mirror and on the scroll of
Jurōjin, represent longevity. Pine, plum and bamboo
are believed to be lucky , and are called the three friends of
winter. Plum is the first flower of the year to blossom,
often when there is still snow on the ground.
However, flowers and trees are not always used
symbolically. The autumn leaves on the pigeon scroll and the
cherry blossoms in the Kuniyoshi print do not represent anything,
but are there to be appreciated.
