While I briefly wore the chrysanthemum crown myself, I really had intended it for my favorite model. It’s SO much better on her!  I love photography but I also like to use photos like these as reference for future paintings, when my chrysanthemums are no longer in bloom. Here are some of the ones I like the most from the shoot:

I adore how the chrysanthemum petals create a fringe-like shadow, echoing her eyelashes!  This flower in Victorian language of flowers can mean wealth and abundance, cheerfulness, and a wonderful friend.