The art of stencil making involves the precise hand cutting of patterns on paper, which is then used for "resist pattern" dyeing of fabrics in the making of kimonos. It is called katagami, "kata" meaning pattern, and "gami" meaning paper. The actual dyeing process is katazome. It is believed to have begun in the 8th century. Varying stencil patterns represent the aesthetics of several periods, mainly Edo: 1568- 1868, Meiji: 1868 - 1912, and Showa: 1926 - 1989.

The intricacy in the detail of these stencils is simply amazing, and one is hard-pressed to believe that they are hand cut. These lamps are lit with low wattage bulbs, and the effect is stunning.

Click on any lamp below to enlarge for a detailed view and description (more models are available)