Seika

The painter Sōami and the art patron and shōgun Ashikaga Yoshimasa were supporters of the style as early as the 15th century.

[4] In the West, Japanese flower arrangement (Ike-bana) applied to Western needs is a book written by Mary Averill.

[7] Seika incorporates many of the structural rules and classical feeling of the ancient rikka of the Ikenobō school.

[1][2] In some Ikebana schools in Japan when performing Seika the natural characteristics of the plant have to be respected and the arrangement either done in the upright, slanted or hanging form.

[2] In other Ikebana schools Seika is a composite that more reflects and emphasizes the design elements using plant materials.

In ancient times Aspidistra elatior leaves were often the usual tool for beginners to learn the basics of seika as they are easily handled and the side for the sun can be seen clearly.