How Do You Spell CARTONNAGE?

Pronunciation: [kˈɑːtɒnɪd͡ʒ] (IPA)

Cartonnage (/kɑːrˈtɒnɪdʒ/) is a term used to describe a kind of material made from layers of paper-mache or linen covered in plaster. The term is derived from the French word "carton", which means cardboard, and "nage", which means the act of covering or putting something on. The spelling reflects this origin, with the double "n" representing the French pronunciation of the word "nage". Cartonnage has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, from making mummies in ancient Egypt to creating decorative boxes and furniture.

CARTONNAGE Meaning and Definition

1. Cartonnage is a term primarily used in the field of archaeology and art history, referring to a technique or material commonly employed in ancient Egypt from the Early Dynastic period (circa 3100 BCE) until the Greco-Roman period (4th century CE). The word itself comes from the French word "carton," meaning cardboard or pasteboard.

   In its most basic form, cartonnage refers to a process of constructing different objects by layering linen or papyrus soaked in a mixture of starch or plaster. The layers are then shaped and molded into various forms, such as masks, coffins, sarcophagi, and other protective coverings for funerary equipment. These cartonnage pieces were often covered in plaster, painted, and embellished with gilding, pigments, and precious stones or metals.

   This technique allowed ancient Egyptians to produce lightweight, yet durable, three-dimensional objects that could be intricately decorated and customized according to the individual's socio-economic status or religious beliefs. Cartonnage was particularly associated with the burial practices and rituals of the elite, such as pharaohs, royal family members, and high-ranking officials.

   Today, cartonnage plays a significant role in deciphering ancient Egyptian culture and religious practices, as it provides valuable insights into their artistic and technical capabilities. Excavated cartonnage pieces are fascinating artifacts that help researchers understand the iconography, burial rituals, and afterlife beliefs of this ancient civilization.

Common Misspellings for CARTONNAGE

• cartnage

Etymology of CARTONNAGE

The word "cartonnage" has its origins in the French language. It comes from the French word "carton", which means cardboard or pasteboard. The term "cartonnage" was first used in the art world to refer to a technique involving the use of layers of plastered or glued paper or textile to create various objects, usually decorative or functional items such as boxes, cases, or masks. Over time, "cartonnage" became a more widely used term to describe similar techniques used in various cultures and historical periods.