Papier Mache Molds

2:46 PM PST, 10/27/2011

I have been collecting papier mache molds for quite some time and never get tired of them. You probably know that they originated in the Phillipines and were popular once early in the 20th century and then again in the mid-1900's. Papier mache items were formed by first coating the mold with wax, then applying many layers of paper and then, once this was dry and hard, cutting this applied shell off with knives. The molds often bear these knife marks and they in no way detract from the charm of the piece. I've seen some really charming ones but they are fast disappearing. There are Victorian shoes, Canada gees, life-sized turkeys, masks, Santa's boot and mittens...you name it. The good ones are quite finely carved and can really pass as statues. There are also some that are more crude but even these have a rough charm. I had a great witch, then sold her, and now am offering these little snowmen. Pleasekeep an eye on my eBay auctions - you never know what will turn up next!

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