Japanese Flower Arrangement Notebook

Ka-Ho ("Friend of Flowers") is the honorary flower name given to the author of this book after she had completed an advanced course of study in the ancient Ikenobo School while she was studying ikebana in Japan. With an obvious love for the subject, Miss Kroh explains in simple, lively language the traditional and contemporary methods of Japanese flower arrangements. She provides pertinent background information on the history and philosophical meaning of flower arrangement in Japanese culture, particularly in the Tea Ceremony. A pioneer teacher and lecturer in Western flower arrangement, Miss Kroh spent months in Japan as a student in 4 popular schools of flower arrangement: Ikenobo, Enshu, Ohara, and Sogetsu. She explains similarities and differences in the techniques; the special selection of suitable flower containers, how to make Japanese flower supports and holders, and the symbolic meanings given the different types of flower arrangement. There is a chapter on Japanese Gardens with an explanation of the relationship between the art of designing a garden with the Japanese flower art. Magnificent photographs of Miss Kroh's beautiful ikebana lend excitement and clarity to her discussion. A fascinating surprise section describes the Western way with flowers--with emphasis on design, balance, proportion, color, harmony, and the direct relationship between Eastern and Western flower art. The world traveler will find the notes on shopping, eating, and theater-going in Tokyo of great interest and the process of having a kimono made to order highly illuminating.