How many times have you admired a beautiful flower arrangement or been given one by that special person in your life? Have you ever wondered just how the art of flower arrangements came about? Were they only meant to be given on special occasions? Do women only get to enjoy flower arrangements? These are only a few questions I myself have asked, and hopefully in the following paragraphs can answer them for you.
Flower arrangements have been around for centuries and are meant to be a part of every person’s life, be they male or female. At one time in society, however, flower arrangements were often associated with women. After all, flowers are beautiful and women tend to adore things of beauty. Plus our culture seemed to think that if a power tool was not involved than it couldn’t be a manly pursuit. But if we look back at the history of flower arrangements, we find that both men and women have enjoyed this creative pursuit. Historical records indicate that the ancient Egyptians placed cut flowers in vases. In addition, flower arrangements were an important component of their culture, and highly stylized arrangements were used during burials, for processions, and simply as table decorations as well.
The flowers used for the arrangements made by the ancient Egyptians were carefully selected according to their symbolic meaning, with an emphasis placed on religious meaning. The lotus flower or water lily, forexample, is considered to be sacred to the Goddess Isis. Therefore, this flower was often included in flower arrangements. Other flowers that were popular during ancient Egyptian times included the papyrus plant and the palm tree. Many other flowers are routinely found in the tombs of the ancient Egyptians as well. Garlands of flowers were worn by loved ones and left at the tombs of the ancient Egyptians just as many people leave flowers at a cemetery today. Some of these include the blue scilla, the poppy-flowered anemone, the Iris Sibirice, the delphinium, the narcissus and the rose. Continuing our journey thru history we come upon the Greeks and Romans who also had a passion for flowers, though they did not often use vases or pots. Rather, they concentrated more on making garlands and wreaths. They also enjoyed tossing petals onto the floor and onto beds. Like the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans had their preferences when it came to the flowers and foliage they used.
Followers of Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian thinking all routinely placed cut flowers at their altars. This practice dates back to at least 618-906 A.D. In addition to placing the cut flowers in water at their temples, the ancient Chinese showed their love and appreciation for flowers in other ways as well. This includes creating paintings, carvings, and embroidered items with depictions of flowers. These paintings can be found on vases, plates, scrolls and even silk fabrics. The carvings made by the ancient Chinese are made with many different types of materials, including wood, bronze, jade, and ivory.Since Buddhist teachings would not allow the taking of a life of any form, religious practitioners worked sparingly when taking cuttings from plants. In addition, the flowers and leaves that were used to make basket arrangements were carefully selected based on their symbolic meaning. As an example, the bamboo, the peach tree, and the pear tree were used to symbolize the importance of living a long life. Other flowers, such as the tiger lily, the pomegranate and the orchid, symbolized fertility. The most honored of all flowers, however, was the peony. This flower, which is referred to as being known as the “king of flowers,” symbolized wealth, good fortune,and high position. Today the
art of flower arranging is still enjoyed by men and women around the world. Whether chosen for symbolism or for pure beauty, flowers can bring joy and beauty for just about ansituation.Receiving a flower arrangement today is not just thought of as a female thing. Many arrangements are geared for and given to males for various occasions such as birthdays,anniversaries, promotions and any other special occasion one can think of. These flowers are accepted by the male with just as much enthusiasm and joy as their female counterpart. After all, a flower arrangement is a thing of beauty for all to enjoy, be they male or female.
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