Kashmir Papier-Mâché Doves Hand-Painted Trio

Papier-mâché came to Kashmir in the 14th century and never left. In homes and workshops across Srinagar's old neighborhoods, craftspeople build objects from pulped paper, let them dry in layers, then spend more time painting them than making them. Intricate floral work, fine brushes, paint mixed to the right consistency by feel.

Made in Srinagar, Kashmir, these three doves are built from papier-mâché, paper pulp pressed and layered into form, dried, then painted by hand with the fine-line floral patterns that define the Kashmiri tradition. Each is slightly different from the others; the painting cannot be perfectly reproduced.

Hang them in a window, on a doorframe, from a mantle hook. They are light and move slightly in a breeze. Three is not an accident, odd numbers create balance without symmetry. The palette is rich and works against both light and dark backgrounds.

Kashmiri Papier-Mâché · Hand-Painted Florals · Srinagar, Kashmir · 14th-Century Craft

Care Instructions

• Dust gently with a dry, soft cloth, do not wet.
• Hang away from direct sunlight to preserve colours and mirror adhesion.
• Handle with care, the mirror inlay is fragile.
• Do not clean with water or any liquid cleaner.