Handpainted Ornament Periwinkle with Pink Peony Flowers

Handcrafted in India with a traditional papier mache technique, these beautiful ornaments celebrate the season with classic or whimsical designs!

• Handpainted designs, glossy finish. 
• Measures  3-inches in diameter.
• Loop on the top for hanging, with tassel on end.
• Each design may vary slightly due to the handmade nature of each piece. 
• Made from Recycled Paper.
• Fair Trade.

Story behind the Art: 

Papier Mache is a handicraft that originated in Persia and was introduced to India in the 14th century by a Muslim saint. The craft is made from paper pulp and crafted into colorful, beautifully decorated pieces such as ornaments, bowls, boxes, and trays. The process of making papier-mâché in Kashmir involves several steps, starting with pulping the paper which is soaked in water for several days, then ground in a stone mortar until it's a uniform consistency. Handmolds are used to create the base form.

Papier Mache is an age-old art that has been passed down from father to son for generations.  The skills to master the craft take years to learn, so children are often taught from an early age.  More recently, women have been allowed to learn the craft and participate in production which has been a big milestone.   Papier Mache art is a multi-step process that culminate with an artist hand-painting the intricate scenes and designs. 

Due to the handmade nature, slight variations in size, color, shape, pattern, or other characteristics may be evident. Each piece is truly a unique work of art, lovingly crafted by hand.