This beautiful hand painted card is made by women in Egypt out of durable, lightweight papyrus paper. This type of paper was the most significant writing material in the ancient world. Used first around 4000 BC, Egyptians developed paper from the papyrus reed, which grew plentifully along the banks of the Nile. The inner pith of the stalk is cut into long strips, pounded and soaked in water. Strips are laid horizontally and vertically on top resulting in the typical crisscross pattern. They are squeezed together until all the moisture is removed and then pressed to form a single sheet. Today, Egyptian women work with artisan partner Jirmit Papyrus, hand painting cards in their own homes to provide for their families. Emad Ekram Attia Masrud owns and runs the Jirmit Papyrus workshop, where he employs 42 artisans. Artisans are paid per card, and can usually make up to 25 cards per day.
5''H x 7''L
