Capturing the essence of something as ethereal as a flower is a challenge that many artists have accepted through the centuries. Some have mastered the preservation of the plants themselves, others of recreating those using different materials. This article will focus on the works of the second group, as they can be considered the ancestors of the replica flowers we are so used to today.
Tender plants made of expensive fabrics, precious metals and gems have served as tokens of gratitude or affection in not one or two ancient and medieval countries. Starting from China and going through France, Italy and England, legendary beauties and women of noble birth used to walk around with jewels that cost the yearly income of a rich province tucked in their hair. Numerous museums around the world exhibit such examples of fine craftsmanship. Some are as small as a necklace pendant, others, like a certain golden tree kept in the Russian Hermitage, are exterior replica plants that although not full scale, were an unmistakable sign of splendor that used to capture the eyes and imagination of subjects and guests of the royal family alike.
But there is another form of artificial flowers that deserve our attention. More precisely, the origami. Origami is an ancient art of folding paper and can trace its origins back to sixth century Japan. Patterns have been passed on from generation to generation and skilled folders can recreate amazingly lifelike plants, even animals. In the past years origami was somewhat modernized and resurrected. It is now not an uncommon sight to see living flowers bouquets replaced by paper ones that are just as beautiful. Even the corporate world has turned its eye to this form of decorations. Although considered to be quite eccentric, or probably exactly because of that fact, origami flowers have been the main ornaments in various fashion shows and receptions.
Beside the jewelry and paper plants, these made of contemporary materials also hold a strong position. They feature plastic, silk, cotton, rubber, polyester, as well as other fibers known for being durable and easy to work with. Modern versions of the so called permanent botanicals often serve as accents to displays of living and breathing plants. If compared solely by visual characteristics, artificial flowers, bushes and trees don`t fall behind their originals. Many manufacturers have reached such a level of expertise that telling one from the other is only possible after a close inspection.
Some businesses like malls, banks and many others that are visited by a lot of people on a daily basis, have found it a more sensible option to go for them. After all there are no falling leaves to clean, no fading colors, no watering, no need to sustain specific temperatures or humidity levels as it is quite often the case with green plants. There are only fresh looking, beautiful decorations, that require little to no care at all.
The almost complete lack of cares interior and exterior replica plants need, when compared with their originals, is probably one of their most appealing qualities. But it is by far not the only one. There are also the flexibility of use and safety. For example exterior replica plants, whether used for indoors decoration, exterior hanging baskets or floral displays can be rearranged and moved around easily, without making a mess or being damaged.
They can withstand bad weather conditions with greater ease than living plants, not to mention how much longer their life span is. Except for being more practical, artificial plants can be a lot safer too. Manufacturers have found ways to make their products fire redundant. This is a benefit that needs no further explanation. In addition, since replica plants lack the aroma and feeding qualities of their originals, they are less attractive for bees, hornets and other dangerous, stinging insects. This is surely something most people would appreciate, especially parents of little kids and those with bite allergies.
It is safe to say, that although living and breathing trees and flowers are the more common choice when people want to add some color and good mood to the premises. But after considering all the pros and cons, one must confess that replicas have some unbeatable advantages of their own.
Beant Bajwa writes articles for PHS Greenleaf. PHS Greenleaf offer a great variety of replica flowers. Their designers can provide excellent exterior hanging baskets and floral displays, by using both living and exterior replica plants.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beant_K_Bajwa
No comments:
Post a Comment