The bouquet of cut flowers is a simple but seductive creation whose history is closely linked with ancient traditions from Western cultures. This unique book traces the story of flowers as symbolic messengers at times of celebration and mourning, revealing the meaning of lilies, roses, tulips, etc., and their subtle language which was used and recreated by societies from the Romans to the Victorian era.To create The Book of Flowers, Catherine Donzel has undertaken extensive archival research to find rare paintings, documents and texts which illuminate the complex language and symbolism of flowers through the ages. Her interviews with major flower importers and florists in Europe and the United States provide a unique insight into the contemporary world of flowers and highlights their continued importance in our social, professional and emotional lives.Magnificently illustrated with fine art and specially commissioned photography, The Book of Rowers reclaims the traditions of floral decoration and shows why floristry today is gaining the status of haute couture design.