Paper stencil (katagami)

early 20th century

Katagami were used to print patterns on both fabric and paper. While these are functional objects, it is easy to see how they are also decorative art objects on their own. Katagami were often made from natural fibers, such as mulberry bark. The example here includes images drawn from nature, such as flowers.

Mulberry bark paper treated with persimmon juice

Image: 8 1/4 x 16 5/8in. (20.9 x 42.3cm)

Overall: 20 1/4 x 11 11/16in. (51.4 x 29.7cm)

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

33.1732

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Exceptionally Ordinary: Mingei 1920–2020, Dec. 14, 2019 - Sept. 6, 2021 [on view Mar. 24 - Sept. 6, 2021].

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

Learn more about Equity at SAM