Handmade in China since the VIIth century, the best possible paper for artists uses a special extralong fiber that doesn't need any sizing or charge to be consistent, absorbs ink and pigments, stands strong through time. It's called Xuanzhi (Xuan paper) after the place where it comes from. The best Japanese papermakers never succeeded in imitating it. It is so famous that any good paper is now called "xuan" in China, whatever its origin and material. Consequently ordinary paper appears today in discounters catalogues. But the real Xuanzhi has to be stamped by one of the last two or three workshops producing the original product. Restrictions to export (and even a total ban for one of these brands) apply. Thanks to a presence on the spot and acquaintances of over thirty years, Comptoir des ecritures has the power of supplying it from time to time anyway.
Washi or not washi ?
Japanese paper handmaking has become a symbol of all national prides. Selection of rough material, hand preparation and purification, and manufacturing the sheets reach an incredible level of technical perfection, therefore makers are sometimes classified as "National living treasures". Genuine washi or "japanese paper" is rare; its very special smoothness and strength make it a must not only for calligraphy (sho) and painting (sumi-e and nihon-ga) but also for printing (ukiyo-e), engraving, allsorts of handicrafts such as lamp making, kites, fans, papier-maché objects and deluxe wrapping.
