Rikka

The term came to be a popular synonym for ikebana in the 15th century, when rikka became a distinctive element of interior decoration in the reception rooms at the residences of the military leaders, nobility, and priests of the time.

[2] It enjoyed a revival in the 17th century, and was used as a decorative technique for ceremonial and festive occasions.

It was eventually supplanted by the shōka style, which had a classical appearance but was asymmetrical in structure.

[1] The Saga Go-ryū (嵯峨御流) school has Buddhist roots and the style of floral offerings at the altar follows similar rules and is called shōgonka (荘厳華).

Important rules have been created that relate to the nature of the lines, their lengths and combinations of materials, the use of kenzan or komiwara (straw bundles), etc.

They are usually quite large, from 1.5–4.5 metres (4.9–14.8 ft), and their construction requires the highest technical and artistic skills.