How to recognize a real Japanese print?
Tôma's 3 tips to never be mistaken again!
At KOGEDO, prints are sacred. They have stood the test of time, passed through the hands of artisans, and sometimes even crossed oceans to reach you. But how do you know if a print is genuine, hand-printed according to Japanese traditions?
Fortunately, our dear Tôma is here to share with you 3 foolproof tips to recognize an authentic Japanese print.
🌸 1. Look at the back of the print: the transparency of the paper speaks volumes
The first thing to do: turn the print over.
Traditional paper used for hand-printing, like washi, is thin and translucent. You should see the colors – especially the darker ones – show through the back.
Even better: if you observe slight circular or wavy marks, these are the traces of the baren, the bamboo tool used by the suri-shi (the traditional printer).
A small detail, but a precious proof that the print was hand-printed.
🌸 2. Feel the relief: woodblock printing leaves its mark
Tôma will tell you: a real print should be touched (gently!) as much as it is looked at.
Woodblock printing always leaves a bit of relief. The most obvious is that of the black lines, printed with the first block (omohan).
But also keep an eye out (and a finger!): some prints show embossed areas without ink, this is the kara-zuri technique. A subtlety often used to highlight details of a kimono, flowers, clouds…
On modern prints, the relief is easier to feel, but even the oldest ones have this tangible trace of the artisan's touch.
🌸 3. Look for traces of the bamboo frame in the paper
Here's a secret only enthusiasts know: handmade washi retains the memory of its creation.
If you place the print in front of a strong light, you might see a network of lighter lines appear in the paper. These are the sunome, left by the bamboo frame on which the paper was dried.
No sunome? Be careful. This could indicate industrial washi – which is impossible for an antique print – or even a modern reproduction without artisanal printing.
🎌 At KOGEDO, only authentic prints
No cheating here! Every print you find in our antique shop has been carefully selected and verified by Tôma himself. Because at KOGEDO, we respect tradition, and we want you to be able to experience true Japan firsthand.
🖼️ Want to see real prints?
Discover our carefully selected collection of authentic Japanese prints:
👉 View KOGEDO print collection
Watch Tôma's full video right here 👇