Cartonnage is a term which refers to several methods of construction of objects using paper and glue. In my readings regarding ancient Egypt, I discovered that some mummy cases were constructed from layers of used linen and or used papyrus, one technique of cartonnage. Descriptions I have read explain that these materials were dampened, and then formed into human shape by being pressed over the mummy. These shells were allowed to dry, plastered to obtain a smooth surface, and then painted to resemble the person whose body was being preserved.
My version of cartonnage uses various types of reused paper, and a form of acrylic matte medium for glue. Layered paper laminated with the acrylic medium creates a fairly light-weight, strong, semi-water-resistant material when allowed to dry. I sometimes form my cartonnage pieces over my own original sculptures made in plasticine clay, in similar fashion to the Egyptian craftsperson's methods described above.
