If you have ever visited a temple, museum, or even a Japanese restaurant, you must have come across very characteristic floral arrangements: subtle, delicate, without many elements. Ikebana, which means “living flowers”, is the ancient art of putting together arrangements based on symbolism, harmony, rhythm and color. In it, both the flower and the stem, the leaves and the vase are part of the composition, representing heaven, earth and humanity. Even dry twigs and fruits can be incorporated into the set.
Ikebana arrangements are like sculptures, paintings and other forms of art. They carry meanings, narratives and historical importance.
where did it come from
Ikebana arrived in Japan in the sixth century, brought by Chinese missionaries who created the arrangements as an offering to the Buddha. The elements are supported by the kenzan, a pointed metallic support.
Discover some of the different styles that have emerged over the years.
rikka
This style is closely linked to the gods, and symbolizes the beauty of paradise. Rikka has nine positions, which were created by Buddhist monks.
- Shin: spirit mountain
- uke: receiving
- hikae: waiting
- Sho Shin: Waterfall
- Soe: support branch
- nagashi: flow
- mikoshi: ignore
- do: body
- Mae oki: front body
seika
In contrast to the formality of Rikka’s strict Ikebana rules, Seika brings freer ways of arranging flowers. The style was born from the combination of two other styles, the more rigid Rikka and the Nageire, which allowed the flowers to rest freely in the vase. In the late 18th century, the interaction between Rikka and Nageire gave rise to a new type of flower arrangement called Seika, which literally means fresh flowers.
In Seika style, three of the original positions were retained: shin, soe and uke (although now known as taisaki), creating an uneven triangle.
Moribana
Today’s open spaces require Ikebana to be viewed from all sides, 360 degrees. This is totally different from Ikebana’s approach in the past. To be appreciated, Seika must be in a tokonoma (Japanese living room) and seen sitting on the floor in front of the arrangement. The Moribana style of Ikebana evolved as a way to create a more three-dimensional sculptural quality with the use of natural plants.
Contemporary Ikebana
The concept and style of classic flower arrangements – such as Rikka and Seika – remain fundamental, but modern tastes have led to the use of a variety of materials not previously used in Ikebana. In this example, perhaps the unique flowerpot with its three fine painted lines inspired the artist to create this stunning arrangement.
*information Japan Objects