Saturday, 22 October 2011

Egypt - The Home of Flower Arrangements


Flowers, with their association with beauty and nature, and their meanings within the world, have been used as stimulation for all mediums of art, and have played a basic part in the development of human culture. Flowers have been used for centuries by men to persuade attractive women. Human beings have been arranging flowers of their taste and choice. Artificial flowers have existed throughout history and contain ancient Egyptian flowers made out of papyrus.

In ancient Egypt, flowers were a vital part of the culture. It is believed that the foremost flower arrangements were done in Egypt. Specific Egyptian flowers were used to identify different parts of Egypt similar to how we use a State Flower now. The Lotus was the symbol of Upper Egypt whilst the Papyrus was the symbol of Lower Egypt. Intricate flower crafting were said to be used during funeral ceremonies and for parades. Also, they were considered as table centerpiece where flowers were put in a vase. Just like today, flowers already had meanings entrenched to them at that time. Thus, most of their designs consist of lotus. There is proof that points to artificial flowers were also used as part of the dress and as decorations.
Historical records show that the early Egyptians placed cut flowers in vases. In addition, Egyptian flower arrangements were an imperative component of their culture, and highly stylized arrangements were used, for processions, during burials and simply as table decorations also. The flowers used for the arrangements made by the early Egyptians were cautiously selected according to their symbolic significance, with an emphasis placed on religious meaning. Nelumbro nucifera, better known as the lotus or water Lilly, was a real favorite Egyptian flower. It is considered to be blessed to the Goddess Isis, and was consequently, often included in flower arrangements. Other flowers that were admired during ancient Egyptian times consisted of the papyrus plant and the palm tree.

In Egypt, as far back as 3,000 BC, christmas flowers egypt were an indispensable part of burial customs. For example, a sarcophagus exposed in the Valley of the Kings in 2006 to contain many woven flower garlands. There are also several tomb paintings and friezes depicting the significance of flowers within Egyptian life. Family members and mourners are supposed to have worn garlands and left flowers at the tombs of nearest and dearest, much as we do in the present day. Flowers were also seen as a sign of prosperity. Coins from the Ptolemaic dynasty often portray the Cornucopia, or the Horn of bounty, which is filled with flowers, fruit and vegetables, and was considered to be a sign of wealth and status. As well as being symbols of opulence, grief and artistic stimulation, many ancient cultures considered flowers to be a appropriate gift to symbolize regard and honor.

History shows that flowers have always been an imperative part of human life. Today, flowers are used for many occasions, as assertions of love and respect and even just for simple pleasure or decoration. It is sure that flowers will continue to be a major source of inspiration and pleasure to us for many years to come.