Late Eighteenth-Early Nineteenth Century Japanese Edo Period Paper Stencil for fabric.
17. Late Eighteenth-Early Nineteenth Century Japanese Edo Period Paper Stencil for fabric. Plum blossom designs, with illegible writing on lower margin. Apparently joined by human or horse hair. Approximate dimensions: 19”h x 17”w. Insurance appraised in 1995 for $650.
Inherited from my mother's estate.
Inherited
No
Dear Graham,
Thank for choosing Mearto for your appraisal. This is an Edo Period Katagami stencil, which was used to dye fabric for kimonos. The art of Katagami is so revered in Japan that in 1976 it was deemed an Important Intangible Cultural Property under Japan's Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. The method for creating these stencils has not changed since the 8th century, where layers of washi paper are bound together using a persimmon based adhesive, which gives the paper not only its distinctive color but also makes it strong and flexible. The paper is then cut by highly skilled and trained artisans using four principle cutting techniques.
The stencil appears to be in good condition and fair market value would be between $100-150. The estimate provided was made by looking at recent sales results, within the past five years, of similar Katagami stencils. It is not uncommon for prices realized to fluctuate over the years, based on style and taste trends. Also, frequently the insurance estimate and the fair market value will be different because they have different value conclusions, meaning they seek different answers.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks
Morgan
