Ise Katagami Cooperative
Katagami Stencil Lamps - Yunagi (Evening Calm)
Ise Katagami stencils were originally used for dyeing patterns into the fabric of kimono. It is a traditional craft with a long history of over 1000 years. The craft developed significantly during the Edo period under the protection of the Kishū Domain. It was at its peak during the post-war period, but with the decline in demand for kimono thereafter, production was subsequently downsized. In recent years, the works have been recognized for their design value and they are now exhibited in art galleries. The Katagami stencils were taken abroad during the Meiji and Taisho periods where they had a profound influence on Western fine and applied arts within the context of Japonism. This information only came to light in a recent study. Consequently, Katagami stencils are now used not only for dyeing, but also for artistic and interior design applications. The appeal of Katagami surpasses all generations and it is now being passed down to the current generation.
Against this backdrop, we endeavored to create Katagami lighting products, and developed "Yūnagi," an LED Katagami lamp. The origin of the word "Yūnagi" comes from the moment when the sea breeze changes to become a land breeze at dusk and one experiences a moment of dead calm. Please enjoy a quiet and tranquil moment while gazing upon the Katagami pattern of your Yūnagi Katagami Lamp.
