The Language of Yellow Chrysanthemums
As a famous traditional Chinese flower, chrysanthemums carry a rich accumulation of thousand-year cultural heritage through their vibrant colors. Chrysanthemums of different color systems not only decorate the scenery of the four seasons but also convey human emotional codes through a unique system of floral language. Let us decode the floral language to explore the deep cultural connotation of this autumn spirit.
Cultural Origins of the Language of Yellow Chrysanthemums
The Golden Messenger of Missing
Yellow chrysanthemums have always been an important carrier of emotional communication, with their bright color and long blooming period symbolizing the longevity of longing. From the records of sacrificial use of chrysanthemums in the "Book of Rites" to the elegant practice of exchanging chrysanthemums among literati in the Tang and Song dynasties, the golden petals carry emotional sustenance across time and space.
Materialization of the Reclusive Spirit
The famous saying "Picking chrysanthemums under the eastern fence" by Tao Yuanming deeply binds the yellow chrysanthemum with the reclusive sentiment of literati. Its pure and clean nature has evolved in modern society to signify a departure from the hustle and bustle and a return to authenticity, becoming a symbolic symbol of the spiritual pursuit of urban people.
The Symbolic System of Colorful Chrysanthemums
White Chrysanthemum: Mourning and Frankness
The plain white petals condense the most solemn emotional expression. In Japanese flower arranging, white chrysanthemums are often combined with flowers offered before a Buddha; in the West, they have developed a new meaning of "frankness," applicable in special occasions such as business apologies.
Red Chrysanthemum: Auspiciousness and Persistence
In traditional Chinese weddings, red chrysanthemums are often paired with peonies to symbolize wealth and longevity. Modern psychological research has found that red chrysanthemums can inspire positive emotions and are suitable for giving to patients in recovery to express encouragement.
Purple Chrysanthemum: Mysterious Love
The rare purple variant became a token of love among nobles in the Victorian era. Its floral language of "tempting love" has evolved in contemporary times to represent mature love, suitable for anniversary bouquet designs.
Pink Chrysanthemum: Noble Expectation
The light pink chrysanthemum variety commonly seen in Japanese royal weddings has developed a unique "respect" system. In flower arrangement design, light pink is suitable for giving to elders, while bright pink is often used in confession scenarios.
From the altar of sacrifice to the wedding hall, from the desk of literati to the flower shops in the city, chrysanthemums continue to express the most delicate human emotions with their colorful posture. Mastering these floral language codes can not only improve the accuracy of gift-giving etiquette but also deeply experience the modern inheritance of traditional flower culture.