How was paper mache discovered and developed in Mexico?

Paper mache has its roots in China, with the inventors of paper itself. It then became popular in Europe, and it was through the Spaniards that paper mache entered Mexico. In Mexico, cartoneria or paper-mache sculptures are a traditional craft that goes back to the colonial period when the Spanish brought the art overseas. Shop a range of antique and modern paper mache on 1stDibs.

Paper Mache Shelf

Folding Shelf

Chinoiserie Wall Paper

Black Corner Cabinets

Bamboo Display Cabinet

Pagoda Shelves

French Chinoiserie Cabinets

Pagoda Wall Shelf

Black Lacquer Case Display

Unusual Large Decorative Antique Papier Mâché Bowl - Shelf Art

$679

H 10.5 in Dm 18 in

Unusual Large Decorative Antique Papier Mâché Bowl - Shelf Art

Located in Llanbrynmair, GB

An unusually large Paper Mache (Papier Mâché) bowl, organic form with a superb earthy colour tone

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Unknown Primitive Decorative Bowls

Materials

Paper

Recent Sales

French Chinoiserie Papier Mâché Shelf with an Ornate Pagoda Motif, 19th Century

Unavailable

H 19 in W 16.5 in D 7 in

French Chinoiserie Papier Mâché Shelf with an Ornate Pagoda Motif, 19th Century

Located in Richmond, VA

Offered is an absolutely stunning, late 19th century French, chinoiserie papier mâché japanned

Category

Antique 19th Century French Chinoiserie Shelves and Wall Cabinets

Materials

Wood, Lacquer, Paper

Bamboo and Chinoiserie Games Table

Sold

H 31 in W 25.5 in D 16 in

Bamboo and Chinoiserie Games Table

Located in Laguna Beach, CA

Bamboo games table with a chinoiserie decorated top and embossed paper mache frieze and bottom

Category

Early 20th Century French Other Game Tables

Materials

Bamboo, Lacquer, Paint, Papier Mâché, Paper

English Bamboo Corner Display Shelf

Sold

H 68 in W 31.25 in D 22 in

English Bamboo Corner Display Shelf

Located in Wilson, NC

This shelf has six levels each of which is decorated with red lacquer embossed paper mache. The

Category

Antique 1880s English Corner Cupboards

Materials

Bamboo, Lacquer

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Questions About Paper Mache Shelf

How was paper mache discovered and developed in Mexico?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Paper mache has its roots in China, with the inventors of paper itself. It then became popular in Europe, and it was through the Spaniards that paper mache entered Mexico. In Mexico, cartoneria or paper-mache sculptures are a traditional craft that goes back to the colonial period when the Spanish brought the art overseas. Shop a range of antique and modern paper mache on 1stDibs.