Rikka: Japanese Flower Arrangements Boxed Notecards

A centuries-old tradition of “standing flowers,” rikka is a classic Japanese artform. Stately, upright arrangements (often 5 to 15 feet tall) reflect nature’s splendor and are rooted in Buddhist cosmology. A pine branch might symbolize mythical Mount Meru’s endurance and longevity. Chrysanthemums commonly evoke human joy, happiness, and nobility; and cherry blossoms allude to fleeting beauty and universal renewal. These formalized floral displays grace temples, exhibitions, and prestigious residences, for religious, ceremonial, or purely decorative purposes. The illustrations presented in this notecard set were selected from an album in The New York Public Library’s esteemed Spencer Collection.