Origami is known as the art of traditional Japanese folding . The word origami comes from the Japanese verb “oru” (to fold) and from the word “kami” (paper). But what exactly is origami and where does this technique come from?
What is origami and where does this technique come from
Origami seems to originate in China where it first appeared in the Western Han dynasty (- 202 / – 9 BC), under the name of zhézhǐ (折紙 / 折纸). Several centuries later, the Buddhist monks would have introduced it to Japan.
In this way, we should not think that Origami really comes from Japan even though they were the ones who gave it its name, which we have already said comes from “oru” and “kami”, two Japanese words.
The development of origami in Japan
At the time of its introduction in Japan , the then rare paper was considered a precious material. In Japan, therefore, it was folded on the occasion of religious ceremonies , to decorate tables (most often sake jugs).
We also find origami that has to do with religion in the Katashiro , a representation of a deity used during the Shinto ceremonies of the Ise temple (in Japan) and considered as a talisman and lucky charm.
The practice of origami would have developed rapidly during Buddhist rituals and then would have flourished among the half-warrior Bushi (armored warriors responsible for the protection of religious family clans). Making origami flowers showed their friendship .
During the Edo period (1603-1867), the practice of the paper folding technique would have become popular . However, and as in many other practices, the transmission of folding models is mainly done orally, so that only simple models have survived.
Today, the Japanese know two or three very popular origami among children , among them the box, the frog or the Japanese “tsuru” crane , very important for Japan because it is synonymous with longevity and fidelity. One legend even says: “Anyone who folds a thousand paper cranes will have his wish granted.” »
Your arrival in Europe
In Europe, origami developed in the 18th century under various names , notably ” Paper Amusettes.”
In fact, the German educator Friedrich Fröbel, at the origin of the kindergarten model, had recognized then the enriching character for the development of children who had the activities of folding, cutting, assembling and braiding. It was recognized then that this technique allowed the development of creativity, rigor and precision of the gesture.
Since then, in Japan as well as in other countries, many people, young and old, have practiced origami to create both simple models and very complex models, sometimes requiring several sheets, gluing and an impressive number of folds.
