The art of papier-mâché is believed to have been brought to Kashmir during the Mughal Empire in the mid 14th century and it has traditionally existed as a family profession in Kashmir with the tricks and technique being handed down from generation to generation. The artisans are very skilled and practice the art for many years.
There are two parts to the craft of Kashmiri papier-mâché – the first step is called Sakhtsazi which involves the making of the foundation with the paper pulp and the second is called Naqashi which is the final step of the painting and decorating of the objects and these are carried out by different artisans.
SAKHTSAZI
The waste paper is soaked in water for three to four days and then it is pounded in a stone motor until the mixture becomes very fine and forms a pulp. The pulp then gets mixed with a rice based glue called Atij and the combined mixture is applied to a mold made of either clay or wood and left to dry for a few days. The paper is then removed from the mold and shaped, smoothed and coated with a lacquer to protect it during the next part of the process.
NAQASHI
The object is then handed over to the Naqash who covers it in thin sheets of butter paper for further protection between the object and the paintwork so that it does not crack. After it is covered, a thin coat of paint lays the foundation for the artwork which is usually very intricate and is usually done over 3-7 days. The designs are drawn free hand and then painted and a final layer of clear varnish for shine will finish the object.
Each of these hand made objects has a unique story to tell and the ancient art continues today, taking on some new methods and ideas but staying true to its traditional foundations.