With the shorter days, the thick carpet of gold, orange and red leaves all around and the impending change of the clocks, Autumn has most definitely arrived.
In this short-read blog, we take a look at some of the iconic symbols that have come to represent Autumn across Japan. As always with our Articles and News Stories, you can Click on any of the images to take a closer look.
A flock of migratory Geese on a striking Bronze vase by Kano
The Japanese Maple (or Acer) is one of the most recognisable symbols of Autum in Japan. It represents both the beauty of the Season and the transient nature of life. Similar to the Cherry Blossom Season in Spring, it is a time to reflect on the fragile and often too-short beauty of life. The practice of Momijigari, (or Maple leaf hunting) involves viewing the changing, vibrant colours of the leaves and is a popular cultural and spiritual tradition.
A playful Macaque in the boughs of a Japanese Maple on a pair of vases signed Yabu Meizan
Perhaps the most prominent animal for Autumn in Japan is the Deer. Deer are often associated with the sounds of the Season as their mating calls are heard in October and November. Deer are often depicted with Maple leaves in Japanese art, further representing the height of the Season.
A Bronze Deer features on this Okimono group alongside Jurojin, (God of Longevity)
Tigers are also associated with Autumn and it was believed that the Tiger had the ability to control the winds. Tigers are also symbolic of the West and the element of metal. They are one of the four sacred animals of Japanese mythology that symbolise the cardinal directions and represent strength.
A Tiger prowls through the Bamboo groves on a masterful Satsuma vase by Sozan (Principal artist for the Kinkozan Company)
Geese are another strong symbol of Autumn in Japanese legend. Their seasonal migration from the North during the Fall is seen as a representation of the arrival of the season and the concept of change. Their presence and calls are often associated with Autumn nights in poetry and literature. For Centuries, Geese have been a metaphor for the themes of travel and solitude.
A pair of Greese on this flush-inlaid Japanese Bronze vase signed Chikasai
Back to plants and vegetation, Japanese Pampas grass, (Obana) is a prominent Autumnal flower often depicted in art and poetry.
Ducks swim among Japanese Pampas Grass on this impressive Satsuma vase made by the Kinkozan Company
Chrysanthemums are a powerful symbol of longevity, dignity and even the Imperial family. They are also a common motif used in Autumn art. You can read our blog about Hanakotoba, (the Japanese language of flowers) by Clicking Here or on the image below.
Chrysanthemums feature on this beautiful cloisonné vase
In the kitchen, seasonal foods such as chestnuts, pumpkin and mushrooms are popular and are often incorporated into special menus and delicacies.
A Rat guards a treasured Chestnut
Ohagi is a popular (and very tasty) Autumnal treat which is made from sticky rice, adzuki-bean paste and cornflour. Shūbun no Hi (the festival that marks the arrival of Autumn in Japan is a busy time for bakers and confectioners as there is a huge demand for Ohagi.
Bakers busy making tasty Ohagi on this large Satsuma vase made for the Yasuda Company
You can read our blog about Shūbun no Hi by Clicking Here or on the image below.
A pair of Pheasants in the boughs of a flowering tree on an impressive Satsuma vase
We hope you enjoyed this article. You can find over 100 stories and blogs inspired by our collection of Chinese and Japanese Fine Art and Antiques by Clicking Here.