Printing Block

A miniature printing block used for the age-old Japanese craft, Kyō-karakami.

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This printing block depicting maple leaves is used for Kyō-karakami, a craft started in Kyoto during the Heian-period (794-1185 CE), which uses wooden printing blocks to print decorative patterns on paper. The rich designs are typically hand-carved into magnolia wood blocks by expert craftspeople, making each block slightly different in shape and thickness. In order to produce uniform patterns on the paper without any irregularities, Kyō-karakami craftspeople rely on their finely tuned senses and the skills that have been passed down over the centuries. The patterns of the blocks represent seasonal motifs.
The flower-like shapes of the snow crystals represent the winter season in Japan, while the maple leaves are one of the iconic symbols of autumn. The maple, called kaede in Japanese, is also referred to as momiji, which literally translates to red leaves, a distinctive feature of maple trees during autumn and an expression of seasonal changes.

Wipe with a damp cloth before use.
Use water-based ink.
Wash the stamp after use and leave to air dry.

Size: L4.7 cm x W4.7 cm x H1.5 cm

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