The family-run business of Iris and Norbert Leithold revives the centuries-old papier-mâché tradition of Ludwigslust. In 2013, they founded the Ludwigsluster Papiermaché-Manufaktur ("Ludwigslust Papier-Mâché Manufactory") in Bulow Palace, a magnificent royal seat. In workshops, guests can try out the old art of making papier-mâché themselves.
The "carton from Ludwigslust" is legendary. In the 18th and early 19th century, artistic room decorations made of papier-mâché were sent from Ludwigslust to the European salons right as far away as London and Paris. Duke Frederick the Pious of Mecklenburg had the room decorations of his palace in Ludwigslust made and gilded his own manufactory: statues and busts, stucco work and furniture ornaments that look like they were precious carvings.
"We make authentic historical souvenirs as well as modern designs for table decorations or picture frames. For children, for example, we have an entire farm that they can take with them and paint themselves"
