Handmade Papier Mache Box

Product Details

1. PAPER MACHE FROM THE STATE OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR, INDIA

The term "papier-mâché," derived from the French words meaning "chewed, pulped, or mashed paper," represents an artistic technique involving the use of paper pulp or pieces bonded together with adhesives like wallpaper paste, glue, or starch to craft a diverse array of useful or decorative objects.

The history of Papier-Mâché can be traced back to 200 AD, during the Han Dynasty in Imperial China, gaining prominence after the invention of paper. Examples of Papier-Mâché art are found in Kashmir, Japan, the Middle East, and ancient Egypt.

The strip method involves cutting paper into strips and binding them with adhesive, applied to a base or supporting framework. Artists saturate the strips with paste, lay them on the structure, and allow them to dry. Grease and oil may be used as releasing agents. Once dry, artisans shape, paint, decorate, and waterproof the final product.

The pulp method requires soaking and boiling paper to create pulp, which is then mixed with glue and shaped directly into the desired form. This technique is commonly used for sculpting smaller or simpler items.

In 1540, Papier-Mâché was first used for creating doll heads in Europe. By 1725, it became an economical alternative for structures traditionally carved from wood or plaster. Linseed oil was used to laminate paper sheets, creating waterproof panels for coach doors and chair backs.

Papier-Mâché found another application in creating Carnival floats, constructed from wood, metal, and wire mesh, wrapped in paper dipped in glue. These floats serve as scenery, themed characters, and props in various carnivals.

The introduction of the papier-mâché method to Kashmir dates back to the late 14th century when Sufi saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani and his artisan disciples brought the technique to the region. Using Iranian hand-made paper pulp, these artisans crafted a variety of items, including boxes, bowls, trays, étagères, models, birds, animals, vases, lamps, and corporate gifts. Kashmiri papier-mâché remains a popular and protected product in India, recognized by the Geographic Indication Act of 1999.