Secrets of Perfect Art in Lhasa—Graceful Jesamine

Graceful Jesmine, also called Poison Hemlock, which often lives on plateau is given this name due to its toxicity. The root of this plant is the main raw material of Tibetan paper. As a consequence of its aggressive toxicity, there are fewer and fewer people making Tibetan paper now.

It is the this very poisonous plant that can be usd to make the exquisite Tibetan paper. Also, because of its toxicity, worms and insects can not eat or destroy the Tibetan paperas well. After the absorption of both the most positive and negative side, which are immersion under water and exposure under sun, Tibetan paper could be produced. Just like the Tai Ji of China.

The artist will have to dig out the root of the Graceful Jesmine and wash it to wipe off the dirt and mud. Then the root will be put on a giant rock, stone or hammer punching it again and again. This procedure is to alienate its stem and epidermis, which is the only useful part for making Tibetan paper. The epidermis, together with water and alcali will be boiled in a big pot for about 2 hours with consistent mixing, until the material becomes yellow.

When the boiling part is done, artist will take the material out and thump it with a stone until the material is punched into a pancake. As to the dilution part, it depends on how much water the paper pulp needs. The final step would be immersion and exposure.

Yet if you want to decorate the Tibetan paper, you can use leaves, grass, flowers or even furs. The embellished Tibetan paper can be use to make umbrella or drawing paper, which is very popular to tourists travelling in Lhasa. Get yourself ready for the art wonderland of Tibet.