The Basic Structure of Ikebana
Ikebana encompasses numerous schools, each with its own unique forms and expressive methods. This article focuses on the Ikenobo school’s “Shoka” style as an example. The fundamental structure recognized in Shoka is the “Shin (Main Branch), Soe (Supporting Branch), and Tai (Body Branch).” These three main branches symbolically represent the natural form and form the crucial framework of ikebana.
What is Shōka?
Shōka is an Ikenobo style that spread during the Edo period. Compared to the grandeur of Tachibana, it is characterized by a more concise and refined expression. It aims to reflect the natural form using limited floral materials and to harmonize with the tokonoma alcove or everyday spaces. At its core lies the three-stem structure of Shin, Soe, and Tai.
Shin (Main Branch)
The Shin is the longest, tallest main branch, serving as the “protagonist” that supports the entire arrangement. Often positioned straight upward, pointing toward the heavens, it represents the “great tree reaching toward the sun” in nature or a “symbol of vitality.” As the central axis of the work, its form provides stability.
Soe (Supporting Branch)
The Supporting Branch extends diagonally alongside the True Branch, adding depth and breadth to the work. It symbolizes human existence and harmony within nature, serving as the “supporting actor” that enhances the True Branch. Its presence prevents the work from appearing as a solitary stand-alone piece, instead creating natural movement throughout the entire space.
Tai (Body)
The body consists of low, horizontally spreading branches that provide stability and form the foundation of the work. Symbolizing the earth or water surface, it supports both the main and the secondary branches. A solidly placed body anchors the entire composition, evoking a sense of “rootedness” in nature.
Harmony Created by Three Branches
The three branches—main, secondary, and body—are said to symbolize “Heaven, Human, and Earth” respectively. Main = Heaven, Secondary = Human, Body = Earth. When these three harmonize, a single arrangement is completed as a microcosm of nature. The length, angle, and placement of flowers and branches are determined based on these three, with other floral materials added to complete the arrangement.
Advice for Beginners
The concept of Shin, Soe, and Tai might seem daunting at first glance. However, the key point is simply arranging three stems—long, medium, and short—in a balanced manner. For example, even with just three tulips, placing one stem straight and tall, another at an angle, and the last one lower down naturally expresses the essence of ikebana.
“Main, Secondary, and Supporting” forms the fundamental structure of Ikenobo ikebana and is an essential concept for understanding the world of ikebana. While not necessarily used in other schools, understanding this three-stem philosophy allows one to learn the underlying sense of “beauty in harmony with nature” that is fundamental to ikebana.