asabugami (Paper)

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. Called asabugami because it resembles asanuno, hemp cloth. According to legend, papermaking was brought by Chobei Matsumoto from Yamato Province during the Kanei Era (1624-1644). Patronized by Kaminoyama Clan during the Tokugawa Period. Delivered by farmers instead of taxes.

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.

sample

Washi sample mounted horizontally on white, labelled and folded paper with 3-pointed leaf above scrolled 'm' watermark. Sample is rectangular, sheer, and white. Mesh of fine and thick fibres is prominent. Very faint pattern of widely spaced vertical lines. Right, left and upper edges cut straight; lower edge retains irregular deckle edge.