[MHGinTN]

Isn't it though! Isn't as similar technique used with palimpsest (sp?), where a previous message is disappeared using something like urine, then a new message was written on the reclaimed paper or papyrus.

[Jamestown1630]

I think canvases were often re-used by artists similarly; and they’ve found paintings under paintings...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palimpsest

[gleeaikin]

I think palimpsests were usually made using parchment
(leather). I think paper and papyrus were probably too fragile.