There is only a few and sporadic evidences on the origins of the use of the papier-mâché technique in Italy, and they all date back to the 15th century.

The production of papier-mâché statues amongst sculptors in Lecce started around 1700.

Papier-mâché statues better met the needs of a more devotional, religious and practical clientele, for the numerous processions organized by the confraternities. Several artists were employed in papier-mâché workshops, making statues for  Stations of the Cross representations, patronal feasts and nativity scenes.