Ikebana means "arranged flower" is the Japanese art of flower arrangement, also known as — the "way of flowers".

In contrast to the decorative form of flower arranging in western countries, Japanese flower arrangement creates a harmony of linear construction, rhythm, and color; in themselves, decorative requirements. The Japanese emphasize the linear aspects of the arrangement. They have developed the art to include the vase, stems, leaves, and branches, as well as the flowers. The entire structure of a Japanese flower arrangement is based on three main points that symbolize heaven, earth, and man.

Enjoying the beauty of flowers is common to all mankind. Ikebana finds its basis in the beauty and meaning flowers have for man, a perceived beauty which stems from the essential bonds of man and nature. Nature is not only the wellspring of man's existence but also defines the vital spirit of beauty. Flowers, needless to say, represent such beauty.
Japanese ikebana is a creative art which brings indoors the charm and beauty of landscapes, the seashore or lakeside. Ikebana recreates nature on a reduced scale through the arrangement of all types of plant material gathered from nature - from gardens, rivers, valleys. Nature is thus always close by for us to learn of its essence. Flower arrangements thus do more than decorate our homes - they provide moral sustenance as well.

Japanese Ikebana (literally 'flowers kept alive') is very complex. There are many schools, of which the most popular are Ikenobo, Sogetsu and Ohara. There are also different styles depending on the school and the plants and vase used.

Apart from its cultural value, Ikebana is also a lucrative business. Ikebana schools are filled with students, especially eligible young ladies who view proficiency in the art as a means to improve their marriage prospects.

Modern ikebana dates from 1930 and goes by the transliteration zen'ei ikebana or zen'eibana. This form of ikebana is more expressive than the classic style. Along with tea ceremony and calligraphy, ikebana was one of the arts in which women were traditionally schooled in preparation for marriage. Today, flower arrangement is venerated as one of the traditional arts in Japan. It is practiced on many occasions like ceremonies and parties, and modern people are still choosing to study the art.


Source : http://en.wikipedia.org