A Tatoushi: Laminated Layers of Recycled Ledger Book Paper

early twentieth century
28" x 28",  71 cm x 71 cm

This is a square paper wrapper which has been created by gluing together recycled sheets of used mulberry fiber paper, most of which seem to come from accounting books or ledgers.

This paper was used to wrap goods at a shop in old Japan, and there is evidence of this from the central "diamond" shape of creasing and wear which is slightly noticeable when viewed from a certain angle.

The arbitrary construction of this tatoushi, as it is called, is subtle and beautiful; holding this paper against the light, where its complex network of seams can be seen, is really beautiful, and something of a surprise.

A wonderful piece of old Japan and a stunning artwork in its own right, both sides of this tatoushi are beautiful and hold many, many details and visual subtleties.

Recommended.