RAKU WARE

Chrysanthemums, which bloom with dignified elegance even in the cold, are also known as ‘the flower of the reclusive hermit’. They have been likened to the image of an ‘hermit’ (a person who withdraws from worldly affairs), and have long been regarded as a symbol of sages and virtuous gentlemen, representing purity, integrity, and noble character. In ancient China, many poems themed on chrysanthemums were composed by literary figures such as Tao Yuanming, who was particularly devoted to the flower. It is said that chrysanthemums were introduced to Japan during the Heian period, and from around the time of the Kokin Wakashū (Collection of Ancient and Modern Japanese Poetry), they began to appear frequently in waka poetry.

Later, during the Edo period, around the Genna and Kan’ei eras, chrysanthemum cultivation became widespread among the general public, and by the mid-Edo period, around the Genroku era, it had become a major craze. A wide variety of chrysanthemums were cultivated, and not only did chrysanthemum-viewing and flower competitions flourish, but the flower also became a highly popular motif in kimono designs and various works of art.

Interestingly, the Raku family had already created works featuring the chrysanthemum motif even before this widespread popularity. The way in which the expression of ‘chrysanthemums’ changed across different eras is quite fascinating.

This exhibition showcases the thoughts and sensibilities embodied in chrysanthemums by successive generations of the Raku family, who continued to devote themselves sincerely to the making of tea bowls, free from worldly concerns.