Keio University
The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books
Learn about the history, production and design of papers used inside Japanese rare books.| Length | Under 3 weeks |
| Effort | 3 hours per week |
| Price | Free |
| Subject | Art, Design |
| Level | Beginner |
| Languages | English |
| Video Transcripts | English, Japanese |
Deepen your understanding of rare books and Japanese culture
The papers inside books can last hundreds of years if cared for correctly.
This course will look at the history of papers used inside Japanese rare books, and in other cultures across the world.
You’ll learn about the materials and technologies used to produce Japanese papers, particularly the use of traditional washi paper.
You’ll understand the crafting process used to create Japanese rare books, including the use of design and decoration techniques.
You’ll find out how to identify the different types and varieties of papers used in Japanese rare books.
What you'll learn
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...
Explain the definition and history of washi paper.
Classify washi paper by its production methods, materials, locations and purposes.
Describe the basics of traditional papermaking processes and two types of sheet-forming processes in Japan.
Investigate washi paper to identify its production method and material.
Identify several different techniques to decorate the washi paper used in Japanese rare books including coloring, usage of minerals and fabrics as well as special processes at the sheet-forming stage.
Explore the new possible usages of washi.
Course syllabus
Week 1:
- How to categorize washi paper.
- How the washi paper is crafted.
- What kind of materials are used to make washi.
- What you can tell by examining washipaper.
- The history of washi
Week 2:
- How the washi is colored.
- How to decorate washi during the sheet-forming process
- Gorgeous papers decorated with minerals and fabrics
- Even more variety of decoration such as embossing and shita-e
Meet the instructors
I'm a professor at Keio's Institute of Oriental Classics. I am thelead educator of both the "Japanese Culture Through Rare Books" and
"The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books" courses.
Makiko Shiroto
I am a lecturer at Gakushuin Women's College and a member of the Society for the Study of Washi Culture. I'm one of the educators of the "The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books" course.