Gilding Washi Postcards with Envelopes by Ikazaki

These postcards were made using a traditional paper process by the Ikazaki company in Ehime.

Each is presented with an envelope and features a Japanese design motif.

The cards are examples of what Ikazaki call gilding washi, a combination of European inspired styles of embossed designs on paper - and the local paper tradition of Ōse in Ehime.

Textural and expressive, there are many local lineages in paper (washi), around Japan. This reflects the centrality of paper, not just as carrier of the written word, but as a material used in architecture and the decorative arts. Ōse washi is one such local paper reserve, appearing with calligraphy, in packaging and in the kites flown in the area’s annual festival.

Making Ōse washi is a handmade process, that begins with fibres of the paper mulberry tree. Ikazaki were founded in 2008, and bring together the traditional textures of Ōse with a broad palette of design ideas. Their explorations in their material has led the company to make installations for Yohji Yamamoto in Paris, and to appear in various contexts.

The cards are around 14.5cm by 9.5cm each.