The Exotic Beauty of Flowers - Exploring the World's Charm Through Nature

Flowers speak a universal, silent language that transcends borders and cultures, and bring people together. Today, we invite you on a global journey, exploring the wonders of these beautiful plants. We’ll discover how flowers harmonize with the unique geography, climate, and cultural heritage of each region.

Malaysia, a tropical country, benefits from abundant sunshine and rainfall, fostering the lush growth of diverse plants. The orchid was even once a contender for the national flower of Malaysia! Orchids belong to the largest and most diverse family of flowering plants, with over 800 genera and 25,000 species. This illustration vividly captures the distinctive features of the orchid: its long, resilient leaves and vibrant orange-red petals, brimming with tropical charm.

Gifted by Datuk Adeline Leong President Malaysian Friendship and Trade Centre, Taipei

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The emisu bowl from Okinawa Prefecture showcases the traditional craftsmanship of Ryukyu lacquerware. It features a vibrant palette of vermilion and black, with a polished surface that gleams after multiple layers of meticulous sanding. Ryukyu artisans employ the distinctive technique of "tsuikin" and incorporate the locally abundant turban shells to enhance the unique decorative style of these lacquerwares. The bowl is adorned with a depiction of the hibiscus, also known locally as "akai-hana" (red flower), which is the representative flower of Okinawa. The vibrant flower motif, seen everywhere from shops, parks, and streets to local artworks, resonates with the energy of the island's people, evoking the lush vitality of this land.

Gifted by Takeshi Onaga, Governer of Okinawa Prefecture

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Frangipani

Kiribati, an island nation in the Pacific Ocean, straddles the eastern, western, northern, and southern hemispheres, as well as the equator and the International Date Line, boasting a unique climate and a carefree population. The people of Kiribati have a deep appreciation for nature and embrace a lifestyle that is closely connected to the natural world. Their national flower, the frangipani, perfectly symbolizes the distinctiveness of this place. This finely woven fan, adorned with a frangipani motif, beautifully blends Kiribati's culture with its natural environment. Such handcrafted fans are often exchanged as tokens of affection during welcome banquets in Kiribati, a gesture of warmth that leaves a lasting impression.

Gifted by Tessie Lambourne, Kiribati Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Taiwan

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Kōwhai

The name "Kōwhai" means "yellow" in the Māori language, and the kōwhai flower is not only native to New Zealand but also stands as a national symbol alongside the silver fern and the New Zealand Christmas tree. The kōwhai flower holds multiple roles in Māori life, symbolizing the beginning of the planting season and serving as an important ingredient in traditional Māori medicine. This print, created by local artist Jo Luping, focuses on the elegant form of the kōwhai flower, delicately capturing its intricate shape. It instantly evokes the vitality and charm of New Zealand's landscape.

Gifted by Moira Turley, Director, New Zealand Commerce and Industry Office Taipei

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The lotus is deeply intertwined with the lives of the Vietnamese people. Its leaves can be used for shading, as umbrellas, or for holding objects, and the flower itself is an essential motif in temple and architectural decorations. In addition to serving as a spiritual symbol in the hearts of Buddhists, the lotus is also a central theme in folk songs. Even the design of Long Thanh International Airport in Vietnam draws inspiration from the lotus. This artwork is crafted using Vietnam’s representative hand embroidery techniques, showcasing a beauty that is both fresh and elegant, embodying the resilience and profound cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Gifted by Vu Tien Dung, Director, Vietnam Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, Taiwan

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