Papier-mâché - Ideal material for sculptures

Originally from Asia, papier-mâché has been known in Europe since the 15th century. At first, it was mainly used to make reliefs and nativity figures. By adding high proportions of chalk, the so-called stone board was created, which was used for making dolls from the 17th century onwards. The papier-mâché was also used in the manufacture of papal tiaras.

To make it, paper torn into pieces is mixed with water and paste to form a viscous paste. After drying, this paste acquires a certain firmness. Therefore, papier-mâché is well suited for modelling, but it takes quite a long time to dry and shrinks a lot.