Chrysanthemum - Cultural Significance and Symbolism

Cultural Significance and Symbolism

In some countries of Europe (e.g., France, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Poland, Hungary, Croatia), incurve chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are used only for funerals or on graves, while other types carry no such symbolism; similarly, in China, Japan and Korea, white chrysanthemums are symbolic of lamentation and/or grief. In some other countries, they represent honesty. In the United States, the flower is usually regarded as positive and cheerful, with New Orleans as a notable exception.

  • A Ming dynasty Chinese red lacquerware dish with carved design of chrysanthemums and dragons

  • Chrysanthemum crest on the Mikasa

  • Chrysanthemum crest on the gate of Yasukuni shrine

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