OKAMURA (Kichiemon).
Uzen Takamatsu azabu-gami densho [Traditional papermaking in Uzen Takamatsu]
Shining a light on Tohoku paper-making
In this book, Okamura delves into the world of paper-making in Uzen Takamatsu.
Uzen Takamatsu is located in the Tohoku (northern) region of Japan, in Yamagata prefecture. It is not clear exactly when paper-making began here, but some have traced it back to sixteenth century. This area is known for azabu-gami, ‘linen paper,’ which is usually quite thin and durable. So fine was the quality of this paper, that it was protected as the official paper for the local daimyo (feudal samurai leader) during the time of the Kaminoyamahan rulership (1622–c.1868). The paper-makers benefitted from their patronage, as they were exempt from paying taxes on their fields. Still to this day, the Takamatsu Kannon (Buddhist deity) is worshipped every year on 17th December to express thanks to Matsumoto Chobei, who introduced paper-making to the area.
Okamura Kichiemon conducted extensive research on traditions of local craft across Japan. He seemed to have had a particular interest in paper-makers and produced a number of books and prints on that theme. In the present copy, he has opted for a lovely green colour palette. The pigmentation is very strong, with much sharper lines as opposed to the looser colouration in many of his other works. Additionally, while many of his books were made in an edition of 100 copies, this one is unusually an edition of 60. It also includes three lovely paper samples from Uzen Takamatsu.
Rare. Only one copy in OCLC (National Diet Library).
