Discussion

From a byōbu by Itō Jakuchū (1716 - 1800). See discussion.

Shikunshi Subjects

Four painting subjects, known in Japan as shikunshi (the four gentlemen), have for centuries been among the first that new artists learn to paint. Among them, all of the basic sumi strokes can be used. Yet, though they can be rendered simply by beginners, they are also capable to enough sophistication to be challenging to highly experienced artists. It has been said that they are among the first learned but last mastered sumi-e subjects. The shikunshi are also associated with the four seasons.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are related to asters. Originating in East Asia, they have been cultivated in china since the 15^th century B.C. By 1630 A.D., 500 variants were recorded. Today, there are over 20,000 known cultivars worldwide; over 7,000 in China alone.

The chrysanthemum photos below show a few varieties. The first is closest to the basic chrysanthemum, though it is more colorful than the original chrysanthemums which were supposed to be yellow or gold.

The next chrysanthemum is named Green Mist.

Some chrysanthemums look like pom poms.

The Language of Flowers

Flowers have meaning. They can communicate things to people. A well-known example is red roses, representing love, especially when given in bouquets of a dozen. The Japanese word for the language of flowers is hanakotoba.

Chrysanthemums have meaning in Japan and other places of the world. Buddhists use the chrysanthemum as offerings due to their powerful Yang energy. Perhaps that is why the 16-petal chrysanthemum symbolizes Japan's imperial family. "Yang" comes from the Chinese concept of Yin and Yang, opposite concepts that mesh together. Yin often symbolizes females, and yang symbolizes males and male potency.

Chrysanthemums have other meanings in other places, but in general, chrysanthemums mean:

• Lasting friendship and non-romantic affection

• Support from your family and loved ones

• Cheerfulness and good spirits, including cheering up a sad person

• Rest and recovery after a long trial or challenge

• Enduring life and rebirth, especially the birth of a child

• Loyalty and devotion, both romantic and platonic

Artwork

Itō Jakuchū (1716 - 1800)

Jakuchū, born the son of a grocer, learned painting skills from Kanō school masters and from his own studies of Japanese and Chinese artists. Mostly independent as a professional artist, he was extremely popular. Among his clients were Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines across Japan. He was especially known for his panel and byōbu paintings. He drew most of his inspiration from natural subjects. The chrysanthemum panel painting below is done with ink on gold-leaf covered paper.

Utagawa Kuniaki (fl. 1844 - 1868)

Not much is known about this artist other than he was an active ukiyo-e painter late in the Edo Period (1603 - 1868). He signed each panel of the triptych below. It features bijinga (beauties) standing in front of panels with painted chrysanthemums.