Chrysanthemums
18th-19th century
Classification
Painting
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Charles Lang Freer
Accession Number
F1909.155
Tags
About this artwork
To 1909
Art Historical Context
**Chrysanthemums** by Ogata Kenzan (1663–1743) is a captivating example of Edo-period (1615–1868) Japanese art, likely a *kakemono*—a traditional hanging scroll painting designed to be unrolled for display during special occasions. Kenzan, a master potter and painter, was renowned for his elegant depictions of nature, blending poetic simplicity with refined brushwork. Though the exact medium is unknown, such works often feature ink and light colors on silk or paper, evoking the seasonal beauty of chrysanthemums, Japan's imperial flower symbolizing longevity, rejuvenation, and autumn's fleeting...