 In Mughal times its silken surface was found to be
an ideal ground for miniature painting, as well as preparing
important state documents. In Madhubani, Bihar, Papier-mache articles have been made for
many generations and has been handed down from mother to daughter. Papier-mache toys and
dolls are modelled on folk tradition which has continued to find vibrant expression in
their work. This craft is light, cheap, durable and adaptable for making decorative bowls,
vases, pots, jars, frames, masks, exotic beads, earrings, bangles and trinkets, containers
and boxes for storing grains, fruits, dry fruits and also for making jewellery and bangle
boxes.
 In Madhubani, Papier-Mache, the ancient eco-friendly craft is made by
mixing paper pulp with Multani Mitti, Dardmeda powder obtained from the local Dardmeda
plant, the juice of neem leaves and methi and smoothened and the object is given shape and
dried. More pulp is added to give the right shape and in a moist state, the object is
polished and dried. When completely dry, the object is coloured in vibrant hues minerals,
roots and flowers or poster colours.
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