The Style and Sophistication of Papier-Mâché

The natural environment of Jammu & Kashmir offers the greatest inspiration to its papier-mâché artists.

Papier-mâché craft is found in Srinagar and the nearby districts of Kupwara, Baramula, Badgam and Anantnag.

There are two sets of artisans involved in its production, the Sakhtasaz and the naqqash.

The Sakhtasaz makes the object with paper pulp.

The craft is said to have been introduced to Kashmir by Sultan Zain-ul-Abadin, son of Emperor Sikander, in the 15th century, after his return from captivity in Samarkand.

During Zain-ul-Abedin’s confinement in Samarkand he was exposed to various Central Asian craft techniques – among them, the use of paper pulp as a base for finely painted and lacquered products.

When Zain-ul-Abedin came to Kashmir he brought many talented craftsmen and artists with him to teach the local people many skills.

The interior of the Shah Hamdan mosque is a prime example of the talents passed on to Kashmiris.

The Shah Hamdan Mosque, or Shrine, situated on the right bank of the Jhelum River(Srinagar), is dedicated to the memory of Mir Sayyid Ali Hamdani, a Muslim saint from Hamadan, Persia.

The Shah Hamdan mosque is an excellent example of indigenous wooden architecture that draws influence from Buddhist, Hindu and Islamic architecture.

Within the Shah Hamdan Mosque is a resplendent display of the finest papier-mâché art executed by artists with faith and dedication.

The artists have used papier-mâché to decorate the walls and the ceiling of the mosque.

In addition to floral designs, the artists have also used calligraphy to decorate the interiors of the mosque.

Fayaz Jan, a highly awarded artist, stands inside the Shah Hamdan mosque, which is a source of constant inspiration for him.

Read more about Papier Maché here:
- The shaping Process
- The painting Process