Papier mache (or paper mache) dolls originated in Germany in the early 19th century. Early 19th century papier mache dolls have been found, but they are rare. Papier mache dolls reached their popularity in Germany in the 1830s and 1840s. Papier mache was also used by the United States of America and France to make dolls in the 19th century.
Before papier mache dolls were introduced, most dolls were carved out of wood or crudely molded out of wax. Papier mache was a revolutionary material because it could both be molded and painted, allowing for an easier development of a doll's head. Being able to mold rather than carve a doll's head was important because molded dolls could look more realistic. Also, being able to paint the doll's head gave it more realistic coloring.
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Papier mache is a mixture made of pulped paper and glue. After this mixture is made, it is placed into a doll head mold in order to create the doll's head. Papier mache dolls tend to be on the larger side, because papier mache is a very coarse material and it is difficult to use such a coarse material for a small doll. They are typically anywhere from 8 inches long to 28 inches long.
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