First edition, one of a limited edition of 100 copies, signed. 82 paper samples tipped in. 295 by 233mm. Fukuro-toji binding, original natural paper wrappers with katazome dyed title slip, indigo chitsu folding card case with gilt lettering to upper, case slightly bumped at corner, otherwise a fine copy. Pagination. Shimane, Izumo Mingei Washi Go-kyo Kaikan, 1956.
A book celebrating the work of legendary paper-maker Abe Eishiro (1902-1984); one of only 100 copies.
Abe Eishiro was born into a family of paper-makers in Izumo, Shimane prefecture (southern Japan, next to Hiroshima). A particularly influential moment in his paper-making career was when he was visited by Yanagi Soetsu in 1931. By this point, the Mingei Movement was gaining momentum and there was increasing interest in regional crafts. Yanagi himself was a great admirer of handmade papers and was particularly impressed by Abe's gampi paper. This is a particular variety of Japanese paper made from gampi bark fibres, and it is known for its smooth finish and durability. Abe became increasingly involved with the Mingei Movement and began to experiment more with different paper-making techniques, introducing a much broader range of paper types to his family workshop. His contribution to paper-making was officially recognised with the prestigeous title Ningen Kokuho (Living National Treasure).
The present book includes 82 original samples made by Abe Eishiro over a 40-year period. Today, the Abe Eishiro Kinen Kaikan (Abe Eishiro Memorial Museum) has dedicated displays of his work and the history of paper-making in Izumo.
Very rare. Only 1 copy in OCLC (National Diet Library).
