Can't really say about the stamens. Perhaps the bud got frosted but stayed alive. I would say eyes visible. Peonia are said to bloom better shallow planted

Thanks for the info Doriac, the two flowers are finished now, what a pity it's so fleeting:-)

I do agree Bornagain. My Bowl of beauty has bloomed so well since I stopped putting fresh compost over it each year. As you say it's a shame each flower is so short blooming. My sister in law had lovely huge, white, neglected peonies that bloomed for ages and had a delicious perfume. I left them alone when I gardened for her, to get on with it.

You should have taken a cutting Doriac:-) I had bowl of beauty in my old garden, it was something to behold in full flower. Some peonys have lovely leaves too, this one, Jan van leeuwen, has quite leathery leaves I think:-))