The Role and Future of Collotype Printing in Japan

Abstract

Invented in 1854 as a photographic printing technique, the collotype process spread throughout the world, especially in Europe and the United States, owing to its exquisite rendering of tonal gradations and excellent archival quality. When it was introduced in Japan by the end of the 19th century, it was initially used mainly for illustrations in art books and played an important role in popularizing Japanese art within Japan and abroad. From the Taisho and Showa eras, the number of collotype printing studios increased in Japan, but gradually decreased after 1970, when other printing technologies emerged. Benrido opened a collotype studio in 1905 and started producing postcards and photographic illustrations, and reproducing cultural properties using the collotype process. Among them was the full-scale collotype reproduction of the wall paintings of the Main Hall of Horyuji Temple. Produced by Benrido in 1937, these reproductions are representative of the best qualities and characteristics of the collotype process. In addition, collotype technology developed in accordance with time. The works of color expressed via collotype through multi-color printing and the adaptation of new digital technology in the process have played an important role in supporting culture and art till today. While there have been many developments, collotype printing has been facing a decline in use, even from a global perspective. Therefore, there have been efforts put forth by individuals and organizations specializing in collotype work to preserve and promote the process via activities such as the “Society for the Preservation of Collotype Technology and Printing Culture” and the “International Collotype Conference.” Furthermore, Benrido started developing environmentally-friendly research and collotype practices so that the collotype technique is continued to be used. It is important to preserve the printing culture of collotype for the future and to further share information on the collotype's history and its contemporary process.