Introduction
Published in 1908, the book Flowers and Gardens of Japan is a travel book that shows off the talents of sisters Florence Du Cane the writer and Ella Du Cane the artist. Florence Du Cane wanted this book to be a short overview of some of the flowers and gardens in Japan. She had a strong grasp of the Japanese language, history, and culture. Ella Du Cane, a prominent artist, illustrations bring to life the descriptions of her sister writings. Her paintings are eye catching with colorful flowers and snapshots of the Japanese favorite pastime of flower viewing.
Azalea
Source: AFTB92D
Depicts azalea gardens that were already ancient by the time the Du Cane sisters visited them in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan in the early 1900’s.
Chrysanthemums, Kyoto
Source: AFTB92C
A flower that survives no matter what the season is, the chrysanthemums in autumn are at their most beautiful. Chrysanthemums are the national flower of Japan and a symbol of the emperor. They represent wealth and have inspired a lot of poetry.
Lotus at Kodaiji
Source: AFTB92F
Lotuses are at their best in Japan during the summer. With sounds of insects thick in the air the “Flower of Buddha” leaves the viewer in awe.
Further Reading
Du Cane, Florence, and Ella Du Cane. 1908. The Flowers and Gardens of Japan. London: Adam and Charles Black. https://www.gutenberg.org/files/56254/56254-h/56254-h.htm#ill_2.
