Paper Item Number: Ed5.2436 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Washi samples mounted vertically on white, labelled and folded paper with 3-pointed leaf above scrolled 'M' watermark. Mounting paper folds in half with rectangular windows over 2 rectangular stenciled samples. Sample at top left is a series of overlapping circles in light white/brown with the centre of each in alternating rows of red/brown or black, then yellow. Each has a cross at the centre. Sample at bottom right is a series of interconnecting, slightly overlapping circles. The intersections are nearly white, the centres form diagonal rows of dark blue on blue alternating with yellow-green on blue. There is a star-burst in near white lines and dots from the centre of each.
Papermaking originated on the Asian mainland and spread to Japan by 1500 years ago. For centuries Japan has produced the greatest quantity and variety of handmade paper or washi in the world. Traditionally, papermaking was a family or community enterprise which thrived in mountain farming communities where cold, pure water and wild bast fibre shrubs, such as mulberry, are plentiful. Washi is an important cultural symbol and holds a place in nearly every aspect of Japanese life. It is also a significant aspect of both Shinto and Buddhist rites and customs. Katazomegami is used to make illustrated books, cards, folding fans, postcards, calendars, bookplates, matchboxes, and other decorative applications. This paper was first developed by Keisuke Serizawa in 1935. He adapted a textile dyeing technique. 919 is a chrysanthemum pattern.
This is part of the Tesukiwashi Taikan, a collection of handmade paper published, in an edition of 1000 copies, in Tokyo as a project to commemorate the centennial of Mainchi Newspapers and to preserve Japanese handmade paper. A collection on this scale had not been made before. This collection consists of 5 boxes of mounted and labelled samples with an explanatory book in 4 of the boxes. The text is in Japanese and with less detail, in English. Compiled and edited by a special editorial staff of scholars. Published by the Mainchi Newspapers of Tokyo, Japan.
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