The Invention of Paper; Transforming Mankind Through Art and Literature

It can be said that nothing transformed the course of history, including the evolution of mankind, more than paper. Starting with the invention of papyrus as early as 2900 BC, paper has taken many forms, including parchment, vellum and plant pulp.

The earliest form of papermaking that we still use today began in 50 AD. by a Chinese court official named Cai Lun. Cai mixed tree bark pulp with gags and hemp fibers to provide the first durable and transportable paper surface. The Chinese stitched paper and bound it to create the first books, and went on to become the leader in book production. In the Middle Ages, Monks illustrated manuscripts commissioned by the church known as codices. These became the oldest examples of art on paper dating from 400 AD.

Woodblock printing on paper began in Asia and spread to Europe in the 18th century. German artist Albrecht Dürer was known for his woodblock prints and engravings and even used paper for paintings. In 1754, James Whitman invented wove, a smoother surface than the textured laid paper. It was treated with gelatin to make it strong and absorbent. This made it useful for a variety of art forms.

As paper mills sprung up all over Europe, it became more affordable than paintings on canvas. As a result, more people could afford works of art on paper. In the 19th century, Impressionists used paper for drawing, pastels, printmaking and watercolor. Japanese color prints introduced Asian art to the world at this time and was very popular. Edgar Degas discovered monotype, a unique print, loosely painted, made by applying paint or printing ink to a flat sheet of metal, glass, or plastic. The painted image is transferred to paper either by manually rubbing or using a press.

Today, you can find paper is a variety of textures, colors and sizes. Handmade paper is seeing a resurgence. Two artists, Helen Hiebert, and May Babcock offer instructions on how to make your own paper. Helen can be reached at helenhiefertstudio.com and May at paperslurry.com.



Albrecht Dürer - St. Christopher Crossing the Stream