White Chrysanthemum, original painting by RD Riccoboni, acrylic on canvas 2009. Self-taught California artist RD Riccoboni™ began painting at the age of five when he got into his mother’s paint-by-numbers. Riccoboni is an entrepreneur and visionary. Exhibited and collected internationally this painter and best-selling author is mentor to many. He has created successful art-based companies, which assist others to promote their artistic passions and come to realize their true artistic value. creamy whites, greens, blues and yellows make up this floral masterpiece by California artist. RD Riccoboni. Chrysanthemums were cultivated in China as a flowering herb as far back as the 15th century BC. An ancient Chinese city was named Ju-Xian, meaning "chrysanthemum city". The plant is particularly significant during the Double Ninth Festival. The flower was introduced into Japan probably in the 8th century AD, and the Emperor adopted the flower as his official seal. There is a Festival of Happiness in Japan that celebrates the flower. The flower was brought to Europe in the 17th century. Linnaeus named it from the Greek word chrysous,golden,the color of the original flowers, and -anthemon, meaning flower.