THE DESIGN OF KYO-KARAKAMI, KARACHO

Japanese Karakami (唐紙) is a decorative Japanese paper crafted by transposing patterns engraved into a wood cut. These prints were used for Fusuma Sliding doors, and its simplistic decoration has been commonly applied in the traditional residential architecture of Japan. Karakami traditionally referred to decorative paper imported to Japan from China, but its meaning shifted as Japanese craftsmen developed their unique style. At the Karacho (唐長) a warehouse for Karakami, over 600 types of wood cuts accumulated over 11 generations are stocked.  Here, we will introduce its refined composition and delicate coloration.