The History, Technology, and Conservation of Architectural Papier Mâché

The use of paper or paper fiber in the production of three-dimensional objects seems to have closely followed the spread of papermaking itself: Brief notice of this ancient history is followed by description of papier Mâche as an architectural material from the 17th to the early 19th century, focusing on the mid-18th century, when it appears to have been used most extensively. The practices of the London craftspeople who produced sculptural detail in this medium for domestic use and export are examined as illuminated by the technical examination of papier Mâche in the Miles Brewton House of Charleston, South Carolina, dating from the 1760s. Discussion of the Brewton house material includes the complete rococo-style ceiling in the parlor, the reconstruction of gilded molding based on fragments from the drawing room found in a rat's nest during restoration, and a bas-relief of Apollo and a gilded border in the stair hall that was damaged but largely complete. Restoration of original decorative sche...