Unique and exquisite art of Asia
By Joginder Singh Bedi

THE widespread belief that traditionally the art of flower arranging originated, developed, and flourished in Japan is nothing short of a misconception. In fact, this unique and exquisite art of Asia has its origin in China which like many other cultural traditions was later adopted by the Japanese. History has it that during the golden rule of the T’ang dynasty (618-907 A.D.) the winsome arts of calligraphy, painting, gardening and flower arranging were first introduced to Japan by the Chinese navigators who increased contacts between the two countries for promoting trade and commerce.

The Japanese refined the Chinese craft of flower arranging by lending it their own native style. Today, as many as 10,000 schools of flower arranging are operating in the towns and cities of Japan which impart vocational training to the lovers of this art.

In context of history of this art a vital point is that at the zenith of the literati movement during the Sung dynasty (960-1279 A.D.) flower arranging along with appreciation of painting, tea and scents was recognised as a theme of profound significance for the scholars to cultivate. During the Ming dynasty (1368-1644 A.D.) this art was widely practiced amongst the people, used in homes and during special festive occasion.

An important aspect of flower arranging is that the Chinese art is quite distinct from that of the well-known Japanese one as it exists today. For instance, the Chinese craft is primarily an expression of mood and feeling which doesn’t adhere to a standard form, whereas the Japanese flower arrangement is conspicuous by the particular placement of flowers emphasising its structure and form. Secondly, while the Chinese flower arrangements sometime lack the decorative beauty and grandeur of their Japanese counterparts, they possess a creativity rarely seen in the Japanese pieces.

It is noteworthy that in China the flower arrangements in the temples reflect Buddhism’s influence on the people’s lifestyle. As a point in case, a single large lotus blossom in a vase or bowl provides an ideal representation of the Buddhist search for inner piece and enlightenment.

Then, folk flower arrangements reflect seasonal and holiday variations. Captivating scenes embellished by lanterns, scrolls, screens and vase stands signify luck and prosperity. Whether on a table, the floor, or at the doorway, flower arrangements are always a decorative presence in a Chinese home.

Like calligraphy, painting, paper cutting, knotting and frog making, the art of flower arrangement has since long been an important theme in Chinese literature. The Chinese regard flowers as the living embodiments of spring and natural life. Consisting of a few blossoms in a vase, literati arrangements displayed in Chinese home reflect a personal pursuit of tranquillity and harmony within a small environment.

Way back in 1980, I was fascinated by the flower arrangement in the house of a Chinese doctor in London. His huge drawing room displaying the court collection was replete with the royal trappings of ancient palaces. A magnificent dragon throne, intricately carved gold screens, and tiger skin rugs lent an air of imperial majesty to the room. A large variety of flowers and plants displayed in large vases and pots augmented the lavish decor.