PEONY'S FOR YOUR THOUGHTS
Celebrating the Timeless Beauty of Peonies: A Journey Through Art and History
From Kyoto to London to Johannesburg, peonies are adored for their timeless beauty, grace, and symbolism.
These exquisite flowers have a rich history and cultural significance that transcends borders, making them a perfect muse for my latest collection.
KYOTO
In Japan, peonies are cherished as the "flower of riches and honor."
They hold a deep-rooted place in Japan's cultural and artistic heritage, symbolizing good fortune and beauty.
Peonies are often featured in traditional Japanese art forms such as paintings, ceramics, and textiles. A prime example is "Peacocks & Peony" by Kano Yasunobu, created in 1683. This masterpiece, rendered in ink on silk, showcases the intricate brushwork and harmonious colors that celebrate the elegance of both peacocks and peonies.
THE PEONY TEMPLE
One of the most enchanting places to witness the splendor of peonies in Japan is the Otokuni-dera Temple in Kyoto, commonly known as the "Peony Temple."
Around late April, approximately 2,000 peony flowers from 30 different species bloom, creating a breathtaking display. The temple's serene setting, enhanced by white Japanese umbrellas protecting the vibrant peonies, offers a unique and tranquil experience for visitors.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
LONDON
Just 10 miles southwest of central London, in the heart of Richmond upon Thames, lies the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Spanning over 300 acres, Kew Gardens is a world-renowned botanical garden renowned for its diverse plant collections and serene landscapes.
Among its many treasures, Kew Gardens boasts an impressive array of peonies, each more stunning than the last.
The seasonal display of these luscious blooms is a sight to behold, captivating visitors with their vibrant colors and delicate petals.
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn
JOHANNESBURG
Returning to South Africa always brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
My mother, with her thoughtful gestures, often arranges a vase of freshly-cut flowers in my bedroom.
Last year, I was welcomed with a particularly stunning arrangement of peonies. Their breathtaking beauty left me in awe, and inspired me to capture their elegance and magnificence in my designs.
This moment of inspiration was the catalyst for creating PeppaRose's Peony Collection.
One hand-drawn peony was created in 10 hours and 42 minutes
I could hardly wait to start working on this new collection and began sketching the blooms at approximately 36,000 feet above the earth.
My focus was on capturing the delicate petals, intricate details, and graceful curves of the peony. The process involved layering multiple shades and textures to bring these flowers to life, ensuring each piece reflects their natural beauty.
Sustainably printed on 100% silk and 100% cashmere, the Peony Collection embodies the long-term value inherent in art, nature, and history.
I am proud to share these values through my designs, celebrating the timeless elegance of peonies.
The Peony Collection is a tribute to the timeless beauty and grace of peonies. Each piece in the collection pays homage to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of these magnificent flowers. From the intricate patterns reminiscent of Kano Yasunobu's masterpieces to the serene elegance of the Otokuni-dera Temple and the vibrant displays at Kew Gardens, the Peony Collection captures the essence of these beloved blooms.
By incorporating elements from my travels and personal experiences, I have created a collection that celebrates the universal allure of peonies. Whether you are drawn to their symbolism of good fortune and beauty, or simply captivated by their exquisite appearance, the Peony Collection is designed to bring a touch of elegance and inspiration into your life.
With love from PeppaRose,
Jacqueline Lampert
Creative Director & Founder