Peonies are one of the first flowers to bloom in my garden, so I associate them with the coming of spring. Dating back to 1000 BC, peonies are native to China, where they were known as the "king of flowers," and used in important holidays such as Chinese New Year. They have a range of symbolic meanings, from wealth to bravery, honor, good fortune, and bashfulness. I painted these peonies as brave and bold -- no bashfulness here!
Peonies are one of the first flowers to bloom in my garden, so I associate them with the coming of spring. Dating back to 1000 BC, peonies are native to China, where they were known as the "king of flowers," and used in important holidays such as Chinese New Year. They have a range of symbolic meanings, from wealth to bravery, honor, good fortune, and bashfulness. I painted these peonies as brave and bold -- no bashfulness here!