PAPER MACHE

Paper Mache is one of the unique crafts in the entire world. Its objects are usually used for decoration. However some objects can be of household use too.

Master craftsman acclaimed for their artistry in making QALAMDAANS, a craft introduced by the Persians using gold, mineral dyes and homemade brushes of single strand of cat’s hair. Remnants of this craft are still visible in the relaxing chambers of the emperors at the SHALIMAR Gardens. In recent times this fine miniature style of hand painting by the NAQASH is called PAPER MACHE, and is still a collector’s prized possession.

HISTORY OF PAPER MACHE

Paper Mache is the French word for “Chewed Paper”. The technique of using paper pulp for making decorative objects was first adopted in Kashmir in the 15th century by King Zain-ul-Abidin. Mir Sayyed Ali Hamdani, a Sufi mystic, came to Kashmir during the late 14th century along with his followers, many of whom were craftsmen. These craftsmen used hand-made paper pulp from Iran, Central Asia.

During the Mughal era, its use was extended to include many items of home furniture that were made in Kashmir. Many notable objects of this type are exhibited in museums in many parts of the world. The basic method followed was to apply the papier-mâché on wood work, and one such work can be seen in Kashmir at the Madin Sahib Mosque built in 1444, the ceiling of the Shah Hamdan Mosque and the Shalimar Garden, a Mughal garden in Srinagar. This tradition of using papier-mâché or pulp on wood work to be colorfully painted with different designs is very much in practice even today. Some of the older designs involved intricate painting of kingfishers, maple leaves and other designs, such as “Arabesque”, “Yarkand” and “Hazara”.

MANUFACTURING PROCESS OF PAPER MACHE

The skilled artisans involved with this painstaking process are called Sakhta Makers. The materials involved with this process are discarded paper, cloth, straw of rice plant, copper sulfate, which are mixed and made into a pulp. To make a these objects, paper is usually soaked, pulped and pasted layer by layer over a mold. A mixture of chalk and glue is then pasted upon. The whole mixture upon drying is painted in different and delicate motifs and designs with beautiful colours. This craft requires great degree of skill, training and practice.

The whole mixture upon drying is painted in different and delicate motifs and designs with beautiful colours. The result is a delicate and classic piece of Paper Machie object. This craft requires great degree of skill, training and practice. Kashmiri Paper Machie is a handicraft of Kashmir that was brought by Muslims from Persia in the 15th century. It is based primarily on paper pulp, and is a richly decorated, colourful artefact generally in the form of vases, bowls, or cups (with and without metal rims), boxes, trays, bases of lamps, and many other small objects.

These are made in homes, and workshops in Srinagar, and other parts of the Kashmir Valley and then are marketed. Although there is a significant international market for these products. The product is protected under the Geographic Indication Act 1999 of Government of India, and was registered by the Controller General of Patents Designs and Trademarks during the period from April 2011 to March 2012 under the title “Kashmir Paper Machie”.

FAQS

What is the history of Paper Mache in Kashmir?

It goes back to the 15th century during the rule of Zain-ul-Abidin.

What are the products of Kashmir Paper Mache?

In the old times main products of Paper Mache were Kalamdaans, pen holding cases, inkpots, brushes etc. But today thousand of products are made.

What is commonly used in Paper Mache items?

The materials involved with this process are discarded paper, cloth, straw of rice plant, copper sulfate.

What is Paper Mache called in Kashmir?

The two aspects of Kashmiri paper mache are Sakhtsazi and Naqashi. The process of making the foundations with paper pulp is called Sakhtsazi.

How is Kashmiri Paper Mache made?

Click here to know the complete procedure for making Paper mache products.

Who introduced Paper mache in Kashmir?

Paper mache is said to have been introduced to Kashmir by Zain-ul-Abidin.

What can we make with Paper Mache?

The best thing about Paper mache is that almost anything can be created with this art. Some of the things are Jewelry, vases, bowls, boxes, animal shapes, plates and much more.

What was Paper mache first used for?

Paper Mache originates from China, it was first used for making helmets dating back to Hans dynasty.

Which Kashmiri Paper mache art form uses flower motifs?

Sakhtasazi.

Where to buy Kashmiri Paper mache products online?

You can visit this store to buy Paper mache products or you can visit Amazon store to buy these products.