Early Origins of Papier-Mâché
The technique of papier-mâché has ancient roots, and was used in several ancient civilisations. For example, ancient Egypt used a similar substance to papier-mâché for making coffins and death masks. The Chinese - during the Han Dynasty, made decorative antique items such as ceremonial burial gifts as well as warrior helmets and armour from papier-mâché. In Persia, papier-mâché was used to make decorative antiques such as small painted boxes, trays, étagères and cases.
Papier-Mâché in Europe and Beyond
Inevitably papier-mâché reached European culture and by the Renaissance it was used to create props and other decorations in theatrical productions, as well as doll heads. At this time Portuguese traders introduced papier-mâché into Japan, where it has remained popular ever since.
Materials and Techniques
Papier-mâché is a literal translation of the French words “chewed paper”. It was an ideal medium for artisans to use when creating decorative items, as it was strong but also lightweight. The process involved using small ripped or cut strips of paper, which were soaked in water and mixed with a solution containing flour to form a natural glue paste. When fully soaked paper strips were attached to a basic form (already made, usually from wire or clay). After the initial layer had dried and hardened, the process could be repeated.
Papier-mâché soon became established as a desirable material for making decorative antiques. It was versatile, cost-effective and ideal for ebonising. This process involves darkening a surface to replicate the appearance of ebony wood, which is highly sought after for making fine quality antique furniture and decorative items. A solution of iron sulphate or vinegar was added to the chemical process, causing the tannins in the paper to darken. This could be repeated until the desired shade was reached.
Papier-mâché continued to be a fashionable material for making small English antique furniture but there was an increasing desire to use it for larger pieces, such as antique tables and antique chairs. The papier-mâché was strengthened by adding cloth and clay to the mixture, then layers of varnish were added to the finished result before decoration. To accommodate the demand, moulds were used for the first time, enabling efficient mass-scale production.
It was also used as a less expensive alternative to plaster and carved wood. In Birmingham, Henry Clay developed a process of treating laminated sheets of paper with linseed oil to produce waterproof panels - these could be sawn and dovetailed like real wood. He patented this method in 1772.
Coloured or dyed paper became available, resulting in a wider range of vibrantly coloured decorative antique accessories. Improvements continued and starch-based pastes were developed which were more flexible, this enabled more intricate moulds to be made. In 1847 the renowned manufacturers Jennens & Bettridge, (who had taken over Clay’s business in 1816), patented a process for steaming and pressing laminated sheets which were often overlaid onto a wooden or metal frame for strength.
Georgian and Victorian Papier-Mâché Interiors
In the Georgian era decorative antiques such as boxes for storing letters and personal items, snuff boxes, trays and small antique furniture pieces were all popular, some of which were delicately hand-painted with traditional floral or nature-inspired motifs. Others were inspired by various clichés of Eastern life – such as landscapes with pagodas, willow trees and naively caricatured Chinamen.
In the Victorian era intricate mother-of-pearl patterned inlays were particularly popular - on decorative items such as trays, which were very popular with the middle classes for drinking tea. Mother-of-pearl was also used on antique furniture such as dainty ebonised bedroom antique chairs. Such embellishments and iridescent or faux tortoiseshell finishes all added a sense of elegance and opulence to papier-mâché antique furniture that particularly appealed to the imagination and aesthetics of the Victorians.
Papier-Mâché Antiques Today
Today decorative antiques and English antique furniture made from papier-mâché are as popular and prized as ever, they are still associated with quality, exquisite detailing and luxury. At Mist Antiques & Decorative Interiors there are several antiques made from papier-mâché, please take a minute to explore the various pages and see what is currently available.