The Japanese term for the glittering mica-background technique used in some ukiyo-e prints is kirazuri.
In kirazuri, mica particles were applied to selected areas of a print, often behind a portrait or across a decorative background. The mineral produced a shimmering, reflective surface that could make luxury prints look especially elaborate under changing light.
Publishers used kirazuri particularly for actor and beauty prints, where a sparkling ground enhanced the status of the subject. The technique was one of several ways ukiyo-e artists and publishers created visual variety beyond ordinary ink and color.
Kirazuri is sometimes confused with metallic printing. Gold and silver powders were also used in Japanese printmaking, but kirazuri specifically refers to the use of mica. It is a surface treatment, not a separate print format or a category of subject matter.