In Japan, a ‘seal’ referred to as inkan or hanko is used in place of the western style signature for personal or formal documentation and works of art. Traditionally a hanko was hand carved with fine knives on the end of a finger-length stick of stone, wood, bone, or ivory. The carving process is a form of calligraphic art. The personalized hanko is pressed into a red paste, made from finely pulverized cinnabar, mixed with castor oil, silk strands or plant extracts, it can then be applied onto a flat surface.

The first evidence of writing in Japan is a hanko made of solid gold given to the ruler of nakaku. Samurai began using them sometime during the feudal period and were permitted exclusive use of the red coloured ink. After modernization began in 1870 the hanko came into general use throughout Japanese society.

Artists sign their work with a type of hanko referred to as Gagō-in. There are no design restrictions, each hanko is unique to each artist and creative in style. The artist choses a name they feel reflects their personality. Designed to bring both authenticity and decoration to art work, the seal is always tastefully and carefully placed, never obscuring the body of work.

Kikukaben is the Japanese name I chose to represent my work as an Ikebana artist. On completion of my studies with the Sogetsu School of Japan I became a certified teacher and was awarded with the title of Sensei. Kiku meaning ‘Chrysanthemum’, is also known as the flower of life – a symbol of the sun so beloved by Japanese. Kaben meaning ‘petal’ represents the orderly unfolding of each tiny petal. Considered a symbol of perfection, layer upon layer of delicate petals together form strength and resilience. The imperial coat of arms of Japan shows a golden Chrysanthemum with sixteen petals. The highest honour for a person is to obtain the ‘order of the Chrysanthemum’.

My admiration for the defined detail of the Chrysanthemum combined with its significance in Japanese culture led me to the name ‘kikukaben’. All images are certified with my personal hand carved seal.

Donna Canning
Ikebana Artist