Chiyogami paper
Chiyogami paper is a type of patterned decorative washi paper from Japan. Washi paper is produced from the bark of one of three types of native tree kozo (paper mulberry), mitsumata (paperbush) or the ganpi.
Historically, the chiyogami paper was produced with a wood block printing technique and was popular during the Edo period (1603 to 1867). There would be separate wood blocks for each colour.
It was sold in large sheets and cut down to be used for decorating homes and objects like tins and boxes. The patterns were based on fashionable kimono textiles seen in cities like Kyoto and some motifs had particular traditional symbolism:
Chysanthemum – longevity
Bamboo – vitality and prosperity
Pines - longevity
Cherry blossom – passing beauty and renewal
As well as botanical motifs, geometric patterns were used to express abstracted ideas and motifs, resulting in a clean and modern aesthetic which is still appealing today.
In the late 19th century, chiyogami became known outside Japan during the World’s Fairs which were held across Europe. The first company to present chiyogami to a wider audience was the Haibara Paper Company.
Over time, silk screen printing took over from wood block printing. This is a refined and complex process during which each colour is separately pressed through the screen and allowed to dry before the next one. The papers also often have a metallic element.
Today the decorative papers are used for book covers and covering small objects, as well as origami and doll-making. There are around 1000 chiyogami patterns that are in use!
