Origami


Origami derived from the word “ori” which means “to fold” and “kami” which means paper. The technology of making paper from pulp originated from China in the first century and folding of paper became popular first in China. The secret of paper making was kept in China for several hundred years and was finally introduced to Korea and Japan in the sixth century, together with the art of paper folding.


Origami soon became important part of ancient Japanese culture and was even a significant aspect of Japanese ceremony. The goal of origami art is to create a given result using geometric folds and crease patterns preferably without the use of gluing or cutting of the paper. Colors and silk threads were added and origami was held in high esteem. Gifts were decorated with “noshi” which is the folding of paper with particular patterns. Samurai warriors would exchange gifts adorned with noshi as good luck token. Origami butterflies were used during the celebration of Shinto weddings to represent the bride and groom.