Washi, the Paper of the Gods. Notes on its history, nature and uses in preservation and restoration.

Abstract

Unquestionably, among those materials of special relevance that have largely revolutionised the techniques used
in the restoration of Western artefacts in relation to Cultural Heritage, emphasis must be placed on those based on
cellulosic support (but not exclusively), especially Japanese paper. Its use in conservation and preservation tasks has
become widespread in many countries beyond Japan. The paradox is that, even though it is a material widely used
by most conservation-restoration professionals, it remains largely unknown. This paper explains to some extent the
historical origins of Washi so that the myriad of names which are foreign to many Western professionals may be
better understood. It will also provide a brief guide to its manufacture in order to distinguish the types of paper which
can be considered appropriate for preservation and conservation.