An exceptionally preserved Meiji-era manual of Ikebana, titled 『容真御流 華道初傳 三才之巻』 (Yōshin-ryū Kadō Shoden – Sansai no Maki) — The Foundational Transmission of the Yōshin School of Flower Arrangement: The Volume of the Three Principles.
This beautifully bound fukurotoji (Japanese stitched binding) book belongs to the Yōshin-ryū (容真御流) lineage, a refined school of imperial-court flower arrangement (Kadō). The teachings within illustrate the philosophy, ritual, and aesthetics of early ikebana — emphasizing harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity (Ten-Chi-Jin 三才).
Inside are detailed handwritten and woodblock-printed diagrams, showing the placement of vessels, stems, and ceremonial tools. The accompanying text provides step-by-step explanations on seasonal compositions, offering flowers, and the spiritual etiquette of the tea room and altar.
Each page reveals the fusion of art, spirituality, and discipline that defines the Japanese way of flowers — a poetic reflection of balance and mindfulness.
This particular volume bears the seal and calligraphic license of the Imperial Yōshin House, signed by Ryūsai Ichimasa (臥龍齋一正法眼), a master of the tradition.
A rare Meiji-period instructional text from an imperial ikebana lineage, complete with original diagrams and seals. A remarkable artifact of Japanese cultural heritage, ideal for collectors of tea ceremony, ikebana, or Buddhist art, and a valuable study resource for understanding classical flower arrangement practice.
