"The text traces the course of social events and garden development and makes note of the important flower introductions of the centuries, as these had direct bearing on the use of cut flowers in the home. Horticultural lists of the favored flowers of each period have been taken from authentic sources.
"The illustrations not only show flower arranging styles and actual flower vases, but also illustrate the use of flowers within homes of the past. Knowing that actual rules for arranging flowers have seldom been formulated, the author refrains from using the term 'period arrangement' and, instead, groups her material under two headings - the 'bouquet art of Europe' and the 'restrained art of the Far East' - and shows how both have been adapted to present-day American taste.
"Julia S. Berrall, one of the foremost authorities on flower arrangement and author of the popular Flowers and Table Settings, traces the fascinating history of the craft through the centuries and exercises her discriminating judgment in presenting the most distinguished examples of each period. Through long and continued association with the garden clubs throughout America, the author is in close touch with their interests and needs; and her love and knowledge of flowers and gardening adds horticultural authority to the text."
