Though most closely tied to Japan, origami also has roots in China and Europe.
Photo:Dev Benjamin
What is Origami?
Origami is the art ofpaper folding.
Photo:Skeeze
Its name derives from Japanese wordsori(folding) andkami(paper).
China
Paper was invented in China around 105 AD, and folded paperorzhezhimost likely emerged shortly after.
By 900 AD, paperyuanbao, or gold nuggets, were a staple at traditional Chinese funerals.
Photo:Dev Benjamin
Photo:Internet Archive Book Images
Eventually, paper folding would become a common practice.
Japan
Paper was introduced to Japan in the 6th century.
During this time, the practice of paper folding emerged as a ceremonial Shinto ritual.
Photo:Kalamazoo Public Library
Today, however, true origami is sculpted entirely through foldsan attribute the Japanese adopted from Europe.
This familiarized children with origami, and eventually enabled the art form to flourish across the continent.
What are Origami Techniques?
Chinese paper fold sycee (Photo: Benjwong (Own work) viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Unlikekirigamithe variation of origami that uses paper cuttingorigami only uses folding and creasing techniques.
Most projects use a combination of the same basic techniques.
Origami Today
Manycontemporary origami artistscontinue to create works inspired by age-old techniques.
Photo:Internet Archive Book Images
Scroll down to see some of Marianciuc’s surreal interpretations.
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Origami techniques (Photo:Deutsche FotothekviaWikimedia Commons, PD-1923)
