The chrysanthemum (ju 菊) is a symbol of intellectual pursuits, immortality and, especially, a happy long life (longevity) due to its many legends and health-providing properties and because it is a homophone of “forever” (yongjiu 永久). Flowering in the ninth month and symbolizing both the number nine (jiu 九) and autumn, it represents longevity. Its blossoms resemble the sun and wine and tea made from its petals are said to extend life, encourage good health and lower ones blood pressure and cholesterol. The joy of growing them in middle or old age and, returning to nature and a serene life has been a widespread Chinese poetic theme for over 1600 years. The Chinese drink these teas and wines on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month to prolong their lives and to replicate Ming dynasty “Chrysanthemum Moon” historical celebrations. The flower had a large presence in imperial gardens, appears in all forms of art and is still believed in China to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
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Hand thrown and -painted Meiji single serving Kyo Ware teapot with luminescent crackled glaze and kiln seal. A chrysanthemum in a basket symbolizes longevity and rejuvenation. Kyo ware is limited, making it collected worldwide.
This charming miniature ewer or small pitcher was made during the Tongzhi Period and probably used in a restaurant or home kitchen as a dispenser for soy sauce, oils or other liquids. With an elegantly curved spout and handle it is covered with chrysanthemums, plantain curved vertical leaves and bindweed vines. The lid has a lotus shaped bud for lifting, and the bottom has a Chinese antique export seal.
Small teapot with intricate cobalt blue chrysanthemum and bindweed designs widely used in late 19th century in domestic and export wares. Ball handle on lid.
This small elm cabinet is from Fujian province known highly decorative vernacular for the new wealthy merchant class. Vernacular furniture was often red lacquer with auspicious symbols. The left door has a magpie on plum tree branch and the right a magpie with a chrysanthemum. The magpie is the bird of joy and happiness and the magpie and chrysanthemum mean “May the whole family be happy,” The a plum symbolizes longevity) and when they have 5 leaves are a wish for the Five Joys/Happinesses: health, wealth, longevity, a life of virtue and a peaceful death. These cabinets were perfect gifts for newlyweds as a desire for double happiness, a long and fruitful marriage with sons
Gorgeous, rare antique Yixing teapot with brown wash, bright painted enamel scene from Peking opera Romance of Three Kingdoms. Floral are wish for long and healthy life, perfect metaphor for sharing tea loved ones. Kiln seals in body, bottom, lid. For decoration only.
This earthenware brick tile bordered with a deep scalloped frame depicts a vase with a bouquet of propitious flowers: a chrysanthemum and a peony wrapped with an elegant ribbon. Tiles like this were made to decorate the large numbers of buildings created during the prosperous Song dynasty and to adorn tombs. This elegant brick is in good condition for its age with expected chips and cracks, some restoration of background and a re-glued frame break on each side. It has earth adherents from its burial in a tomb.
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