Japan, folding screen, cherry blossom in a park, 19th century.

Japan, folding screen, cherry blossom in a park, 19th century.

Pigments and gold on paper, silk and black lacquer border.
Japan, second half of the 19th century.
109 x 270 x 2cm


This six folds screen represents the cherry blossoms festival, showing figures in a park with a river and a bridge.

Late March signals hanami, a traditional custom in which groups of friends or neighbors picnic under the blooming trees. The practice of flower viewing has existed for many centuries, but the term “hanami” became synonymous with cherry blossoms during the Heian period (794–1185). At that time, the custom was restricted to the aristocracy, but it soon became popular across social classes.

This custom began in the Nara period under the influence of Chinese culture. At that time, the Japanese started to admire flowers while the first plum trees were imported from China and made a real hit in the Land of the Rising Sun. Known as Ume, people marveled at the beauty of their blossoms. Later, during the Heian period, it was the cherry trees' turn to be honored.
The tradition of Hanami has its roots in the Shinto rituals of the past. The arrival of spring announced the planting of rice and farmers used to make offerings to the gods to protect their crops. It was also believed that the deities were hiding in the cherry blossoms. Thus, it was important to establish a holiday in honor of the kami. From that time on, the farmers brought delicious food and sake to them. This is where the whole ritual of having picnics under the cherry blossoms came from.
Moreover, the cherry blossom is loaded with a strong symbolism in Japan. It represents the ephemeral beauty and the passing of time, reminding with nostalgia the value of life