Kiku |菊 | chrysanthemums
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Spiky chrysanthemums in a black tomesode.
Chrysanthemums (known as kiku/chrysanthemumlisten)) has long been the symbol of Japan’s imperial family, and is used as a crest on many kimonos as a general symbol that can be worn by anyone. (As kimonos can be given as gifts between families or simply worn by rental companies, this has been a way for anyone to wear a crested kimono without indicating that they are part of a specific family.)
Orange and white chrysanthemums on a green background.
When chrysanthemums were first introduced to Japan, the royal family was struck by their beauty and ensured that the flower flourished throughout the land the family controlled, eventually becoming a mainstay in much floral design. and modern Japanese kimonos.
Embroidered pink chrysanthemums within an abstract tortoise shell pattern.
The main representation of chrysanthemums on kimonos is the flat 2D style, but chrysanthemums appear so frequently that you will see them in all stages of bloom and in many colors, painting styles, and abstractions.
Chrysanthemums in various stages of bloom, hand-painted on a houmongi.
During the Heian period (794-1185), September 9the it became known as the Chrysanthemum Festival, which is still celebrated by many to this day. At this festival, many prayed to chrysanthemums to ward off evil spirits.
Chrysanthemums created with metallic embroidery.
Chrysanthemums are seen as a symbol of long life, and legend has it that drinking the dew drops from chrysanthemums could grant you immortality. So adorning a kimono with chrysanthemums elicits images of living a long and healthy life.
Chrysanthemums as part of the paulownia pattern.
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