A Study on the Evolution of Recognition of Landscape of Ikenobo Rikka Regarding Visual Distance

Abstract

Ikenobo is considered the origin of Japanese Ikebana. Rikka can be considered one of the major flower arrangement styles of Japanese Ikebana. It first appeared in the 16th century (late Muromachi period) and underwent major developments during the 17th century, illustrating the views of the landscape. The aim of this research is to analyze the evolution in the recognition of landscape from the Edo period to the modern era. Research is based on the study of the evolution of the methodology for expression of landscape views in historical records of Ikenobo Rikka works. In particular, the author will focus on the evolution over time of space scale, and on the focus point of each part of the recognitions of landscape regarding the visual distance of close view, medium view and distant view. The analysis of the methodology for expression of Ikenobo Rikka is based on the study of the written instructions and descriptions of Rikka in various Hanadenshos and Kashos, and also the historical drawings of representative Rikka works of each period. In conclusion Ikenobo Rikka expresses the landscape views in multi-layered space scales of distant view, medium view and close view based on the study of both the written instructions and drawings of each period.