Origami is an ancient art form that is believed to have been around for nearly 2000 years, derived from the Japanese tradition of paper-folding. Though they were not the first to experiment with the culture of paper-folding, they were the first to use this technique as a style of art. As you can imagine, it’s had quite a lucrative history and is deeply embedded in Japanese culture. Here are a few interesting things you may not have known about the origins of Origami.
For the initial 1500 years or so of its existence, origami was actually known as orikata, a Japanese word that translates to “Folded Paper”. It was in 1880 that the name of the art form was changed to origami, derived from two Japanese words; oru, meaning to fold, and kami, meaning paper. The reason for the change in this term has been attributed to the easiness of writing the characters for this word, which made it more viable to teach to school children.
Paper was originally created sometime around 100 A.D. While paper is considered a common and cheap commodity now, at the time of its conception, the resources required to create paper were not as easily available. Paper was an expensive and rare commodity, so those engaging in the art of traditional paper folding was usually an art left for the elite rungs of society. Conversely, it was also used by Buddhist Monks for religious purposes. It only later became a practice open to the public.
Speaking of surprising uses, one very important function origami plays is in Japanese Wedding Rituals. Origami Butterflies and other simple designs are often given along with gifts and paper wrapping, but most important is the presentation of 1000 paper cranes.
There are two manners in which this marriage tradition is known to be carried out. The first is the practice of sembazuru, an age-old ritual in which the soon-to-be-wed couple folds the cranes themselves, to be strung up and decorate their wedding hall. Another tradition that used to be followed was the gifting of 1000 cranes to the bride-to-be from her father. These traditions come from the belief that folding of 1000 cranes would grant the holder with one special wish.
The first book ever published about Origami was entitled “Sembazuru Orikata” (Thousand Crane Folding), and was largely about the timeless custom of folding a 1000 paper cranes for traditional weddings. Written by Akisato Rito, the book speaks of the legend behind the wish granted by folding this gargantuan number of cranes.
The most famous book, however, on origami was published by Akira Yoshizawa, also known as the face of origami and the ‘grandmaster’ of origami. Yoshizawa was inspired as a child when a young girl gifted him a paper boat. The book is entitled Atarashi Origami Geijutsu (New Origami Art) and gives an in-depth look at the symbolism behind the art form.
(By Indiana jo, Wikimedia Commons)
As a good luck token for all the future dangers to be faced, Samurais commonly used to present gifts of origami to each other. These gifts were usually a type of ceremonial origami, folded from multiple pieces of paper into intricate shapes and presented along with a strip of dried fish or meat, to signify “good wishes”.
This tradition was originally called “noshi awabi”, and eventually came to be known as simply “noshi”. Over time, the strips of meat or abalone were abandoned and the folded masterpiece itself became the entire gift.
Related Articles:
16 Simple Paper Craft Tutorials
Paper Artist Takes Paper Cutting to Gorgeous Levels
This impressive paper cutting art requires a great deal of patience. Take a look.
This Artist Creates Origami that Stun the Eyes!
This origami art by Cristian Marianciuc is unlike anything you've ever seen.
When Art and Technology Meet: Beautiful-Laser Cut Pieces
These artists utilize laser cutting techniques to create the most intricate and beautiful artworks - from ornaments to 3D books.
This Artist Uses Fruit and Veggies to Create Stunning Art
Witness the wonderful sculptures of Takehiro Kishimoto, who sculpts in fruit and vegetables.
7 Ancient Helmets That Will Blow Your Mind
In this article, we will be taking an up-close look at 7 ancient helmets and their archeological, cultural, and historical background.
This Incredible Artist Takes Years to Paint Large
These huge masterpieces take years to paint and months to decipher...
15 Unforgettable Paintings by Marc Chagall, Explained
You can explore Marc Chagall's 15 greatest works, presented from various periods in his life.
Is Van Gogh’s ‘The Night Cafe’ a Misunderstood Gem?
The Legendary artist, Vincent Van Gogh, considered his painting 'The Night Cafe' ugly. But was it actually a misunderstood gem?
Justin and Jeremy - The Dynamic Twin Duo!
These twins just love their music and dancing - and so will you!
Watch: This Visual Dance Act Is Out of This World!
The amazing dancing couple, Another Kind of Blue, bring new and exciting techniques to Britain’s Got Talent.
Have You Ever Seen the Incredible Dance of 1000 Hands?
This Chinese dance requires 63 people to perform, and it's amazing!
This Violinist Has an Incredible Duet With Her Shadow
What happens when your shadow becomes your duet partner?
This Artist Puts Her Unique Spin on Old Masters’ Art
Many artists are inspired by Renaissance art, but this Maria Vasilyeva's take on it is truly awe-inspiring.
Listen to this 7 Year Old Musician, You Won't Regret It...
And a little boy shall lead them...
This Stunning Embroidery Art is Truly a Sight to Behold!
Vera Shimunia is a Russian artist who has truly mastered the art of embroidery painting. Check out some of her stunning work here!
Watch Carlos Kleiber's Stunning Interpretation of Beethoven
Carlos Kleiber was a legendary conductor who brought an extra level of pizzazz to his performances. Enjoy his interpretation of Beethoven in this video.
When Waltz and Skating Combine Ever So Sweetly
André Rieu once again brings to life a beautiful classical music performance, this time pertaining to ice skating.
9 Famous Paintings That Have Hidden Secrets Lurking Within
Even though you have seen them before, you will have never noticed these stunning and shocking secrets lurking in these 9 masterpieces of art.
A Classic Song Performed by the Voice of an Angel
Jackie Evancho has an incredible voice and her rendition of 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' is life-affirming.
This Famous Song Sounds Even Better in Acapella!
In this video the popular acapella group Pentatonix give an outstanding performance of John Lennon's famous song "Imagine".
Who Knew Tea Bags Could be Used to Create Great Art?
Ruby Silvious is an artist from New York who uses tea bags as her diary. Check out her amazing work!
Listen to a Beautiful Waltz By the Amazing André Rieu
André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra are famous around the world for their beautiful performances, and this one is no exception. Enjoy it now.
This Is What the City of Rome Looked Like 1700 Years Ago
A full model of the ancient city of Rome that took 36 years to complete
20 Modern Sculptures That Prove High Art Is Alive and Well
Here are some of the world's most notable examples of modern sculpture. These awesome designs should be in every city!
These 3D Paintings Appear to Pop Out Of the Sidewalk!
This has to be the most unique street art you'll ever see. This Russian artist's incredible work appears to come alive out of sidewalks in major cities.
I’ve Found a Way to Put Photos Onto Wood. It’s So Simple.
Brighten up a wooden item with a beautiful transfer. This craft project is straightforward, inexpensive and a fun afternoon's activity.
Classical Music: Enjoy 50 of the Greatest Masterpieces!
This video collected together 50 of the most famous and beautiful classical music pieces in the world.
Could You Believe This Art Was Made Out of a Bar of Soap?
Barresi discovered all that he could do with a simple bar of soap.
I Bet You've Never Seen This Kind of Art Before...
Utilizing the best way of recycling, this artist creates beautiful images.
This Magician Sure Fooled Me! How Did He Do It?
Does this magician have what it takes to fool Penn and Teller? Watch His Fascinating Trick Here.
These Dancers & Acrobats Put On an Incredible Show
These two dancers slash acrobats are beyond amazing...
This 91-Year-Old's Beautiful Portraits Touch Our Souls
Why feel bitter about aging when you could just enjoy life? This is the lesson of some wonderful artwork from a mother and son team from Canada.
This Is What 100 Years of Dancing Look Like
This video is so creative, because it features just 2 dancers doing 100 dances with 100 changes of wardrobe. Amazing!
The Most Beautiful Stained-Glass Pieces You Will Ever See
Synonymous with luxury and fame, his works are scattered everywhere in the U.S.: from the White House to, quite possibly, your nightstand.
Enjoy Musical Heaven By an Extremely Talented Cellist!
The multi-talented Kevin Olusola uses only his mouth and cello to produce a most amazing rendition to Sam Smith's "Stay with me".
A Beatles Salute You'll Never Forget...
If you like the Beatles, you're going to LOVE this video.
Feeling Nostalgic? These Billy Joel Hits are Just for You
A playlist of 16 of Billy Joel's biggest hits
Fall in Love with these Enchanting Paintings..
Kal Gajoum specializes in oil painting and palette knife techniques. Here are his mesmerizing and magnificent paintings.
Art Can Take on Many Forms and This Type is Remarkable!
Some people may think of murals as a form of vandalism, which is in fact just another art form we need to appreciate. Here re 10 stunning murals from around the world that will undoubtedly leave you spellbound.
This Performer is Going to Take You on a Magical Adventure
A magical act that quickly made its way to my favorites' list.
Is This Pavarotti's Most Iconic Performance?
What an amazing voice Pavarotti had! I will never tire of listening to him.
A Side Of the Louvre You Never Thought to Look For
The Louvre is the treasure of Paris, and filled with hundreds of thousands of smaller, but equally incredible treasures to fill you with awe
These Paintings Perfectly Capture the Essence of the Ocean
These seascapes are hypnotizing. Check out the astounding work of Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky.
12 Movie Dances That Captured Our Imagination!
Johnny and Baby from Dirty dancing, Danny and Sandy from Grease and many more are waiting to show you their unforgettable and memorable dance moves!
These Stunning Photos Look More Dramatic Than Baroque Art
Check out these stunning underwater photos by Christy Lee Rogers.
This Mongolian Folk Music Sends Shivers Down My Spine
I had never even heard the Mongol language before, much less its traditional throat singing. I have to say the experience is spellbinding.
Music Box: 20 Unforgettable Hits by Donnie Osmond!
To celebrate Donny Osmond's birthday on December 9th, we have curated a collection of twenty nostalgic songs performed by him and some special friends.