A Guide to Shikishi Dimensions: Japanese Names, Sizes, and Uses

Shikishi (色紙) are traditional Japanese boards used for calligraphy, painting, and autographs. While their dimensions may vary slightly by manufacturer, their sizes remain largely consistent.

Beyond their traditional roles, shikishi offer a unique canvas for artistic experimentation. Art San Gallery encourages artists to reinterpret this format with contemporary techniques and unconventional mediums. This initiative blends innovation with tradition, inviting artists and collectors to explore new creative possibilities.

We invite artists and readers of this post to share their thoughts on using shikishi in new and unconventional ways. How do you see this traditional format evolving in contemporary art? You are most than welcome to share your perspective in the comments.

Below is a guide to shikishi dimensions, including their Japanese names and traditional uses.

Standard Shikishi Sizes:

1. Large (大色紙, Dai-shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 24.2 x 27.3 cm (approximately 9.5 x 10.7 inches)

   • Commonly used for art and calligraphy.

     
     

2. Small (小色紙, Sho-shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 18.2 x 21.2 cm (approximately 7.2 x 8.3 inches)

   • Popular for smaller works or personal gifts.

     
     

3. Mini (ミニ色紙, Mini-shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 12.1 x 13.6 cm (approximately 4.8 x 5.4 inches)

   • Used for compact or delicate designs.

     
     

4. Half (半色紙, Han-shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 12.1 x 27.3 cm (approximately 4.8 x 10.7 inches)

   • A tall, narrow format.

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5. Long (短冊, Tanzaku)

   • Dimensions: 6.4 x 36.4 cm (approximately 2.5 x 14.3 inches)

   • Used for poetry or single-line calligraphy.

There are also larger sizes of shikishi beyond the standard ones. These larger sizes are less standard but are great for creating impactful art or detailed calligraphy while maintaining the traditional aesthetic of shikishi. Here are some examples:

Larger Shikishi Sizes:

1. Extra Large (大判色紙, Ōban-shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 27.3 x 39.4 cm (approximately 10.7 x 15.5 inches)

   • Often used for expansive designs or group projects.

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2. Jumbo (特大色紙, Tokudai-shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 30.3 x 42.4 cm (approximately 11.9 x 16.7 inches)

   • Suitable for large-scale calligraphy or elaborate paintings.

     
     

3. Panoramic (横長色紙, Yokonaga-shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 24.2 x 48.5 cm (approximately 9.5 x 19 inches)

   • A wide format ideal for landscapes or horizontal compositions.

     
     

4. Square Jumbo (特大正方形色紙, Tokudai Seihōkei Shikishi)

   • Dimensions: 42.4 x 42.4 cm (approximately 16.7 x 16.7 inches)

   • A large square format for bold or intricate pieces.

     
     

Custom Sizes:

• In addition to these, some manufacturers or art suppliers offer custom-sized shikishi for specific needs, which can exceed the above dimensions.

  
  

We hope this post has provided valuable insights into the sizes, Japanese names, and uses of traditional shikishi boards ; and do not hesitate to share your thoughts about using new mediums on shikishi.

Acrylic, pencil, collage on a Dai-Shikishi, 24 x 27 cm (9.5 x 10.7 inches). Abstract Figurative original artwork by Christian Halna du Fretay

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