Paper Mâché Chinoiserie Tables & Storage Boxes - History and Origins

History and Origins

Paper mâché furniture and decorative objects, including chinoiserie-style tables and storage boxes, were popular in the 19th century, particularly during the Victorian era (1837–1901). These items reflected the European fascination with East Asian art and culture, a trend known as chinoiserie, which had been prevalent since the 17th century.

Chinoiserie was a European interpretation of Chinese and other East Asian artistic styles, often featuring motifs like pagodas, exotic birds, landscapes, and floral designs. It became a symbol of luxury and sophistication in the West.

The use of paper mâché as a material for furniture and decorative objects became prominent during the Industrial Revolution when lightweight and inexpensive alternatives to wood and metal were being explored. These items were crafted by layering and pressing paper pulp, which was then hardened, painted, and lacquered. The resulting surface was durable and well-suited for elaborate decoration, including gilding and intricate hand-painted chinoiserie designs.

Why They Were Made?

1. Artistic Expression: Paper mâché provided a smooth, paintable surface that allowed for elaborate decoration. The chinoiserie designs catered to the Victorian appetite for exoticism and artistic refinement.

2. Affordability: Paper mâché furniture and boxes were less expensive than their wooden or metal counterparts, making them accessible to the growing middle class while still offering a sense of elegance and luxury.

3. Functionality and Portability: Lightweight and often compact, paper mâché tables and boxes were practical for use in smaller spaces. Storage boxes were particularly popular for holding keepsakes, sewing supplies, or jewelry.

4. Decorative Appeal: The glossy lacquered finish and intricate designs made these items both functional and highly decorative. They often served as focal points in parlors or sitting rooms.

5. Adaptation of Asian Influence: While chinoiserie was inspired by Asian art, the designs were often imaginative interpretations rather than accurate representations. These pieces symbolized an appreciation for, albeit a romanticized version of, Asian aesthetics.

Crafting Techniques

1. Paper Mâché Base: Layers of paper or paper pulp were glued together and shaped into the desired form. Once dried, the object was sanded to create a smooth surface.

2. Lacquering: Multiple layers of varnish or lacquer were applied to strengthen the structure and provide a glossy, durable finish.

3. Painting: Artists hand-painted the chinoiserie designs, often using gold leaf, enamel, or mother-of-pearl inlays to enhance the visual appeal.

4. Gilding and Inlays: Many pieces were further embellished with gold leaf or inlays of abalone or other materials for added luxury.

• A fascination with faraway lands and cultures, spurred by increased global trade and colonization.
• A burgeoning middle class with disposable income, seeking decorative items that showcased taste and refinement.
• Advances in manufacturing that enabled mass production of decorative arts while retaining handcrafted details.

Today, these 19th-century paper mâché chinoiserie tables and storage boxes are considered collectible antiques, valued for their artistry, historical significance, and craftsmanship. They provide insight into the period's aesthetic preferences and the cross-cultural exchanges that shaped Western decorative arts.