edprocoat
Masterpiece
Hi Ed, I am not sure if there is a question, point or if it is just observation here. However, as far as the branching, yes, in Bonsai we strive to to have the thickest branches on the bottom and they get thinner as they go up the tree. However, in many cases, this is just not the case, especially with many nursery trees. If you look at trees at regular nurseries and bonsai nurseries, many have the largest branches at the top. This is just how it is. To fix this as far as bonsai is concerned, we do many things. We cut those off and leave the younger thinner ones to develop. We hide the thicker branches with foliage, graft or sometimes create a shari along the bottom of the branch to create thinner look. Also, this tree is a bunjin or has strong bunjin like qualities. Certain bonsai aesthetics are not strictly adhered to when it comes to Bunjin. It is a looser style. However, do not mistake this for being easier to create or bowing out. It is difficult to pull off a successful bunjin.
I did not look at the photograph long enough to see all details. However, the tree may have been in that pot for years and was pulled out for some reason then stuck back in. Perhaps it was not in that pot, but put in that pot to see how it would look. Perhaps it came out of nursery container and was just put in that pot. I do not know.
As far as striping down a juniper. I submit the Kimura bunjin before and after. Also, notice the thickness of the branches at the top.CHIKUGO-EN
Rob
Mine was not a question it was an observation to balance your counter of my first observation. I suppose that now you have had a chance (I assume) to "look at the photograph long enough to see all the details" you may have noticed the left side lacking soil, the imbalance of the tree in the pot as if it was just set there, and the small mass of roots hanging out on the right side, giving the impression it was just set there temporarily. The fact that it sets so high above the pot does not bother me, but you may know Rob that many purists consider that a "no-no" !
As for your above lecture, I do know both what "we strive for" in Bonsai and what is or may not be possible at a given time as well as I know what "we" do to correct these issues.
ed
Thats pretty cool...I'll check out the link when I have more time on my hands to devote to it. (Packing lunches and getting kids out the door this morning) I am at awe in what you developed! Thanks for taking the time to post on this topic. To see the tree then and now is amazing.
