 Nowadays there are many bonsai lovers in foreign countries as well. In this
article, we'd like to introduce you to its' history, definition and pleasure.The word "Bon" of bonsai means china and porcelain (= pottery), "Sai" refers to the plant. Both ordinary planting and bonsai cultivate plants in the pot but each purpose is very different. Ordinary plant is to appreciate the beauty of plant itself. However, essence of bonsai is to create a form in search of more beauty, while maintaining the natural beauty of the plant itself. Although bonsai is less than 1 meter high and space is limited in the pot, a bonsai would leave an impression as if old trees were in the natural scenery, leading us to a creation of natural, yet spectacular world. The art of bonsai is a culture where taking care of the plant and appreciating the natural structure takes place at the same time. It is a form of art unique to the Japanese people who love the expression of vain life and ephemeral beauty.  We can enjoy bonsai using any kind of tree that is able to be cultivated
in a pot. Pine trees, Japanese maple which turns red in autumn, cherry
and plum tree which blossoms beautifully in spring, etc. are popular among
bonsai lovers. Even at overseas, suitable trees can be chosen for different
climates in each country. To create beautiful form, we strive to bring
out the beauty of the tree by accentuating and developing the positive
points of tree as much as possible. One may feel that too much harm is
done to the trees while in formation, but this activity not only creates
beautiful form but also maintains and assist them to grow up within limited
space. Meanwhile, as long as trees grow, there is no completion to the
work; meticulous daily care of the bonsai is required. The art of bonsai was originally brought to Japan from China. About 2,000
years ago, bonsai already existed in Chinese literature. After that bonsai
handed down through Korea and brought to Japan. In Japan, bonsai started
in Heian era (794 - 1184) and prospered together with Tea ceremony and
Noh. At first, bonsai was popular among the aristocracy and Buddhist priest.
During the Edo era (1603 - 1867) bonsai has also widely spread and became
popular among the common people. Also during this period, an original Japanese
style for appreciating the bonsai was formed and in Meiji era (1868 - 1911)
bonsai started to evolve as a means to pursue real beauty from artistic
point of view. Around 20th year of Showa period (1945), bonsai lovers in
foreign countries increased. Nowadays the word gBonsaih is internationally
recognized, as it is enjoyed as a unique art.End |
