01
Where it comes from
The peony came to Japan from China, where it was called the king of flowers. In China it was first grown as medicine, and in time its large, many-layered blooms became a picture of wealth and honor. It reached Japan long ago, and on cloth it opens wide and heavy, often drawn with butterflies. People have given it a wish for a life that blooms fully, and for good fortune in plenty.
02
On the cloth
On obi, peonies may bloom one by one in large, heavy flowers, or fill the ground with leaves and buds. Here chrysanthemum and peony open in gold and silver on vermilion, framed on both sides by stripes of deep purple and gold, on a large cover.
03
To give
Peony suits a wedding, an opening, or a celebration of success. It is a gift for someone whose good days you would like to see in full bloom.
A word to keep
百花の王
hyakka no ō
The king of the hundred flowers. In China the peony was ranked first among flowers and called the flower king.
Two questions
What does the Peony (牡丹) pattern mean?
A wish for a life that opens full and rich. Peony suits a wedding, an opening, or a celebration of success.
Where does the 牡丹 pattern come from?
The peony came to Japan from China, where it was called the king of flowers. In China it was first grown as medicine, and in time its large, many-layered blooms became a picture of wealth and honor.
