The origin of the
Inshu paper
or
Inshu Washi dates back to the Heian period. In this
period this paper was presented to the imperial court from
Inshu.
Inshu is also called
Inaba, a feudal name for an area that
today lies in the eastern part of Tottori Prefecture.
Inshu paper was nurtured by the green of the mountains, the blue of the
sea, and the pure water of mountain streams. During the period from the
early 17th century to the middle of the 19th century, paper making was
developed into a viable industry under the patronage of the feudal lords
of Inshu. In 1975 the
inshu washi was designated a National
Traditional Craft by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.
The handmade Inshu paper was one of the first products to receive
this designation.
Inshu calligraphy paper is finely textured and the brush moves
effortlessly over its surface is another. There is a well known Japanese
saying, "No brush goes bald with Inshu paper". This means
that the hairs of a calligraphy brush are never damaged by this fine
material. The fine texture of inshu paper is because of the excellent
quality of mulberry and mitsumata fibers and ofcourse the skill and
dedication of the papermakers.
Applications of Inshu Paper
- Earlier it was used as paper balloon bombs.
- It is used for fusuma and shoji, Japanese traditional sliding
doors and screens.
- Used for a number of paper crafts.
- Widely used for calligraphy.
