An Accordion Book of Woodblock Designs: Traditional Motifs

early to mid twentieth century
when closed: 10 3/4" x 7 1/2" x 1", 27.5 cm x 19 cm x 2.5 cm

This accordion bound book of woodblock designs shows 27 distinct designs over 22 pages.

In addition tucked into the front of the book is a charming little hand painted illustration of three playful Tang Dynasty-ish Chinese figures. The painting does not have anything to do with the woodblock printed designs within the book.

The book seems to be a compendium of design motifs for textiles or obi (kimono sash). There is a limited color palette running through all the designs, each of which uses just a few colors to illustrate the wood block rendered image. 

Just a few images are flourished with a few hand painted strokes as a finishing detail.

A lovely book to leaf through and one that will provide much inspiration for a designer or artist.

In and of themselves the hand printed images are each frameable.

Wonderful.