KARACHI, Feb 1: A specimen of Kashmir book binding in papier mache prepared in 1869 is on display as object of the month in the National Museum of Pakistan, says a press release.

Papier mache is a unique combination of line and colour on moulded forms of a variety of objects. It involves ornamentation in colour over smoothened surfaces built up of paper pulp or layers of paper. Paper pulp is not always effective and needs substitutes. Whether the foundation is paper pulp or wood, cardboard or leather, the name papier mache is applied to the craft, and has come to mean the technique or surface decoration.

This technique is one of the most popular arts practised in Kashmir. The tradition has its origin rooted in the 15th century when Zain-al-Abedin invited artists and craftsmen from C. Asia.