Meaning “chewed paper” in French, it is a composite material made of pulped paper mixed with a glue or adhesive paste and other fibrous materials. The term also applies to paper strips that are adhered to or pressed between moulds, or papier-mâché that includes plaster. Its use originated in present-day China, and the technique of crafting objects from it was well-established in Asia over several centuries before being introduced to Europe in the thirteenth century. In Europe, it gradually became a substitute for plaster and stucco in furniture ornamentation, and several finishes were developed for its use. It is now also used in sculpture.
More Definitions
Gum Arabic
A naturally occuring gum obtained from the hardened sap of the Acacia senegal and Vachellia seyal trees and traditionally used…
Albumen Paper
Photographic printing paper that is coated with albumen, or egg white, and salt before being dipped in a silver nitrate…
Tusche
A greasy ink used in lithography, etching and silkscreen printing. In lithography, artists use it to create the desired image…
Kasavu
The gold zari used in the border of a traditional white Kerala textile, such as a sari or a mundu…
photosensitive paper
Paper coated with a photosensitive emulsion, used for making photographic prints, usually in a darkroom. It is first exposed to…
Khadi Paper
A traditional Indian handmade paper produced from khadi rags.
Patta
A Sanskrit term meaning "cloth."
Gara
A colloquial term for a coarse, textured cotton fabric.