These small writing sets by traditional paper maker Haibara are presented in boxes the size of large matchboxes.

The outer designs are based on classic ‘chiyogami’ from Haibara’s history in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The letter sheets have perforations that allow their owner to adjust the length of their missive.

Founded in 1806 in Edo (present day Tokyo), Haibara are one of the most classic exponents of Japanese paper craft in the capital. Originally a specialist in fine 'gampi' paper made using shrubs in the Wikstroemia genus, the firm made its reputation among the connoisseurs of fine things in the Nihonbashi district.

The striking nature of Haibara's designs, and the quality of their material, was impactful within the ‘Japonisme’ wave of European interest in Japanese aesthetics of the 19th century.

The business today remains a family firm, and is in its seventh generation.

Its now modern fronted shop in the Nihonbashi district is a place to discover the combination that originally attracted domestic and international interest: fine quality paper presented with period classics of Japanese design.

The box size is 10.5cm by 5cm, and it is 1cm high.

Each box weighs around 25g. They contains five perforated sheets.