Katagami: The Japanese Stencil

The Japanese have printed fabric for centuries using katagami, hand carved mulberry paper stencils. These stencils’ intricate designs and bold style amazed the European and American artists who encountered katagami at the turn of the century. Many became collectors and drew inspiration from these stencils—including architect Frank Lloyd Wright, whose library from the Little House is on view at the Museum. This selection of katagami from the collection highlights their appealing designs and cross-cultural history.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website