Honderd chrysanten door Keika 1893

This is "Honderd chrysanten door Keika," or "One Hundred Chrysanthemums by Keika" in English. It is a woodblock printed book by Hasagawa Keika. The book’s cover is adorned with calligraphy, a powerful symbolic form in East Asian cultures. Calligraphy, beyond its literal meaning, embodies the artist's spirit and state of mind, and acts as a visual conduit connecting the viewer to the artist's inner world. The chrysanthemum itself is a profound emblem deeply rooted in Asian art and culture. In Japan, the chrysanthemum is the symbol of the Imperial family, representing longevity, rejuvenation, and nobility. Its usage dates back centuries, with its origins in China where it symbolized autumn and a life of ease. The presence of chrysanthemums triggers a deeper, almost subconscious, emotional and psychological reaction. Flowers, across cultures, speak to our understanding of life, death, and the cyclical nature of existence. The "One Hundred Chrysanthemums" is not merely a collection of floral depictions, but a resonant echo of cultural memory and shared human experiences. These images will continue to evolve in meaning as they re-emerge and reshape themselves through time.