History of Floral Design Timeline

Paintings, prints, and scrolls tell us how cut flowers were used in art
Arrangements were unstructured and naturalistic, but required careful thought and planning

Highly formalized and follows strict rules of construction
Reflects much tradition and symbolism
Cut flowers and accessory materials placed in arrangements as they are found in nature

Flowers in vases were shown in paintings for symbolism
Variety of bright colors and forms were used
Wreaths and garlands were common
Many containers had removable lids with holes in them to hold stems

Flower arrangements were sent in every situation
Elaborate ornamentation and curved lines were used
Over decoration and gaudy interior were common
Flower paintings showed creative expression in large, flamboyant arrangements
Containers included glassware, terra cotta, and porcelain

Emphasis was on classic form, refinement, and elegance
Arrangements were commonly fan-shaped or triangle and massed, used as decorative accents in interiors
Vases were highly ornate (decorated), portraying elegance, and tasteful extravagance

Massed, rounded, or fan-shaped bouquets that are casual, open, and home-spun in style
Dried flowers and grasses were included with fresh flowers
Fruits and flowers placed around dining table and around floral centerpiece

Fragrance was most important part, believing that perfume would rid air of contagious and infectious diseases
Nosegays were created to keep flowers close by and relieve the smells of unsanitary surroundings
Arrangements were formal and symmetrical, arranged w/ a variety of flowers
Miniature arrangements in bud vases were introduced

Girls were taught to arrange, grow, preserve,press, draw, and paint flowers, including making artificial flowers
Arrangements grouped large masses of flowers, foliage, and grasses together for compact designs without voids
Nosegays and hand bouquets were popular, conveying special sentiments with specific flowers
Formal posy holders were invented using various materials

Defining style of art that had its main theme as curvilinear lines in the shapes of plants and flowers
Containers were all inspired and patterned after curving lines using various materials and shapes
Floral bouquets were also curving and asymmetrical, displaying natural, rhythmic and graceful appearances

Arrangements were characterized by strong, streamlined, geometric lines, forms, and pattern including zigzags, pyramids, and sunburst motifs
Containers show geometrically bold and modern patterns