Paper Item Number: Ed5.2466 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 has an interconnecting pattern of dark pink straight and curving lines in a web-like pattern with interspersed small iris-like shapes. All on a light pink ground. Sample at bottom right has overlapping gently curving dark blue lines with long angular to oval leaves overall. All on a white ground.
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. 976 is an iris pattern. 977 is of bamboo leaves.
sample
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.