Art Creation Theory 15 "The Fun of Japanese Flower Vase"
The Fun of Japanese Flower Vases - A World that Can Only Be Enjoyed through Pottery
When arranging flowers, the atmosphere of the space can change greatly depending on the type of container you use. The flowers themselves are of course important, but the expression of the vase that holds the flowers can create an infinite range of different worldviews. In this article, we will also touch on the history and types of vase used in the tea ceremony.
1. A green glazed flower vase that exudes the warmth of earth
The first item we will introduce is a vase with a unique look, where the deep green glaze blends with the earthenware. There are traces of dripping glaze on the surface, which looks like a natural pattern created during the firing process.
Highlights : The texture of the clay and the blending of the glaze create a "wabi-sabi" feel.
Tips for decorating : Adding wildflowers or small branches that look like they're blooming under the sunlight will bring out the rustic feel. Adding dark brown leaves or autumn-colored berries will help create a seasonal feel.
2. A slim vase with an eye-catching refreshing blue color
The next thing that catches your eye is a slim vase with a striking blue gradation that resembles a clear sky. Its gentle tones are characteristic, as if it were capturing the color of the sea.
Highlights : The slender silhouette and beautiful gradation that transitions from pale blue to slightly whitish areas.
Tips for decorating : Simply inserting a single flower can make a beautiful picture. Try decorating with flowers that stand out, such as mini roses or single-flowered lilies. Place it at the entrance or by a window to brighten up your mood.
3. A soft, snowy landscape: a white and light green vase
This vase has layers of white glaze with a slight bluish tint, making it look like a mountain covered in snow. The color of the soil at the bottom peeks out discreetly, giving it a natural feel.
Highlights : The "scenery" created by the minute cracks (crazing) and pools of glaze on the surface. The appeal is that each piece has a different look.
Decorating tips : Combine with pastel-colored flowers such as baby pink and pale yellow to create a soft atmosphere. Small leaves are also cute.
4. An objet d'art flower vase with an organic form that exudes a unique presence
The last item we will introduce is a flower vase with an eye-catching organic form that seems to have intertwined curves. It looks like a crystal that has naturally formed from the earth, and is a piece that is a work of art in itself.
Highlights : The texture of the clay and the irregular flow of the glaze, which are unique to the high-temperature firing process, create an art of chance. It is also interesting to note that the impression changes depending on the viewing angle.
Tips for displaying : Add tall branches or dried flowers to create a sculptural look. You can also go for the bold option of displaying it as an objet d'art without inserting anything.
What is a "flower vase" used in the tea ceremony?
Hanaware (flower vase) literally refers to a tea ceremony utensil used to hold flowers and display them at the tea ceremony. Historically, in traditional Japanese architecture, such as shoin-zukuri (a simple architectural style for samurai residences that emerged during the Muromachi period), it was customary to display calligraphy and paintings, known as kakemono, on the tokonoma alcove and to add flowers to them.
In modern times, all vessels for displaying flowers are referred to as "flower vases" or "flower vases," but in the context of the tea ceremony, they are more commonly called "flower vases" or "hanaike."
- What is the difference between a vase and a flower container?
Historically, ceramic vases came into use in Japan along with the development of the tea ceremony. Copper vases are the oldest, followed by ceramic vases. In China, the first vases were painted vases from the Tang Dynasty.
Types of vase
Vases used in tea ceremonies can be broadly divided into three types depending on where they are hung and how they are placed.
- Hanging flower vase
This type is hung on a floor pillar, a wall nail, or a flower nail. - Hanging Flower Vase
This type is hung from the ceiling, etc. It is suspended in the middle of the space and decorated with seasonal flowers. - Flower vase
This type is placed directly on the tokonoma alcove. If the floor is covered with tatami mats, it is common to place a thin board on top before placing the vase, but in the case of a basket vase, no thin board is placed on top. If the floor is wooden, no board is used and the vase is often placed directly on the floor.
"Throwing" and seasonal flowers
At tea ceremonies, a method called "throwing" is often used to preserve the natural appearance of the flowers and avoid looking too showy.
- Emphasis on seasonality : The art of tea ceremony reflects the changing of the seasons, such as cherry blossoms and rape blossoms in spring, cool flowers in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and camellias in winter.
- Avoid flowers with strong scents : It is common to choose flowers with a subdued scent so as not to disrupt the atmosphere of the tea ceremony.
The joy of choosing a vase
When choosing a vase, we imagine various things: how we will display it, what flowers we will put in it, and where we will place the flowers. Each ceramic vase is formed by the power of nature and the craftsmanship of the maker, and no two are the same. The appeal of each unique piece makes the encounter between the flowers and the vase even more special.
- Bring out the individuality of flowers : By keeping in mind the aesthetic of contrast, such as matching a container in subdued colors with flashy flowers and a bold container with modest plants, you may make unexpected discoveries.
- Enjoy the changes throughout the seasons : Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green in summer, red leaves in autumn, a single camellia in winter - by choosing the right container and arrangement to suit the season, you can create a richer life.