Katagami (stencil for dyeing textiles)

This stencil, carved by former Living National Treasures of Japan, represents a significant aspect of Japanese textile tradition. Stencil-dyeing became popular after other, luxurious techniques were restricted by the government in the 17th century. Here, the sheet of stencil contains several layers of mulberry paper laminated with persimmon juice, which dyed the paper into a dark brown, strengthened it and made it water resistant. When used, the dyes went through the carved geometric, floral or faunal openwork onto fabrics.