PAPER MACHE
Paper Mache is one of the most popular crafts practised in Kashmir. The tradition of the Kashmir Papier Machie has its origin rooted in the 15th century when king Zain-ul-Abidin invited accomplished artists and craftsmen from Central Asia. The art is believed to have been introduced to the valley from Persia and was used to make designer ‘qalam dan’ or pen holders. The name originated from a French term commonly adopted in East and West which meant “mashed paper”. Papier machie is in fact a unique combination of line and colour on moulded forms of a variety of objects. It involves ornamentation in colour over smoothened surfaces built up of paper pulp or layers of paper. Paper pulp is not always found effective and is some times replaced by other substitutes. The colours painted on the object are made from pigments diluted in water to which some glue is added to fix the ground on which it is used. The three categories of colours are — mineral (both actual and artificial) organic (both plants insects etc.) Vegetables. The final objects papier machie is given one or two coats of varnish which besides giving it shine serves as a protective agent.
Important designs and motifs in papier machie designs are:
Gulander Gul (flower in flower) Hazara (the thousand flowers) Gul Vilayat (the dear flower) Miniature Mugal paints Mythological figures Animals Hunting scenes Battle Scenes The product range covers ring boxes, pillboxes, boxes of assorted shapes and sizes, flower vases, wall plaques, bowls, ashtrays, screens etc.
The designs painted on objects of papier machie are brightly coloured. They vary in artistry and the choice of colours, and it is not difficult to tell a mediocre piece from an excellent one. Gold is used on most objects, either as the only colour or as a highlight for certain motifs. Besides the finish of the product, it is the quality of gold used that determines the price. Pure gold leaf, which has an unmistakable lustre, is far more expensive than bronze dust or gold poster paint. Varnish, which is applied to the finished product, imparts a high gloss and smoothness, and increases with every coat applied.
