Kurotani Washi Japanese Paper Making Process Print Series - Fascinating series of stencil prints depicting the many steps involved to produce washi or traditional Japanese paper. The town of Kurotani near Kyoto is famous for their washi. The raw materials used to produce washi are kozo (the inner bark of mulberry trees), mitsumata, and gampi. The laborious process involves gathering branches, soaking and trimming them, removing the bark and separating out the inner fibers, and pounding and stretching the fibers. Fermented hibiscus root is added to the mix as a natural paste, and the fibers are floated on a bath of water. A worker carefully lifts a screen beneath the fibers to catch them, forming a sheet of paper. Sheets are laid out to dry on wood. Washi is traditionally used for woodblock prints and sumi ink calligraphy, and these designs are printed on wash with three deckle (natural) edges. An intriguing look at this ancient process that is still being used today.

Artist - Shin-hanga & Modern artist (unsigned)

Image Size - Image size varies, page size approximately 13 1/4" x 10 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical fold in margin. Some prints have a few creases. Please see photos for details.