The 'Three Whites' of Shiroishi
Washi, Japanese paper
Guest edited by Eleanor Burkett
“Even against the glittering snow of Mount Zao, how white is the pure paper of Shiroishi” ––Papermaking song by Tadao Endo
Handmade Japanese paper, washi, speaks of the rhythm of the seasons, the water, the geography, and the history of an area. It is formed through a combination of natural factors and bears the imprint of processes which have remained largely unchanged over the years. A papermaking industry developed as the winter occupation of the farming community and thrived during the Edo period (1603-1868). As well as within traditional architecture, washi was used for umbrellas, fans, lanterns, calligraphy, and woodblock printing; it was twisted into a cord, moulded and lacquered to make hats and boxes, and used as material for garments. Although lifestyles have changed and papermaking is declining rapidly, washi continues to be respected and valued and is central to an appreciation of Japanese culture.
Image above: Bundle of threads from 1940s twisted by Kazuko Sato 2022-23
The area known today as the Tohoku region was named Michinoku in the mid-seventh century, translating literally to “the end of the road” or, more poetically, the “deep north.” Michinoku-gami, paper from Michinoku, was prized for its softness, strength, and beauty. Shiroishi, a small city at the foot of Mt. Zao, located about 30 km from Fukushima, was once renowned as a centre for this high-quality paper. Washi, along with umen noodles and kuzu starch, were known as “The Three Whites” of Shiroishi, and the production of shifu and kamiko from Shiroishi washi is the focus for this piece...
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Lead Image: Cut paper from Shiroishi. Photo ©Kazuko Sato.
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