Verre Eglomise is a French term for "glass gilded" which is derived from the name of a Parisian frame maker of the 18th century, Jean-Baptiste Glomy. He adopted the process for decorating the mounts of glass paintings.
The technique of painting on the back or reverse side of the glass from the viewer requires an understanding of how the final work will be seen as well as an adjustment of the traditional method of laying down the paint or lacquer.
For example, when painting on wood, canvas or other traditional surfaces, the artist lays down the base color and then proceeds to enhance the color in order to achieve various effects. Shading, highlighting, marbelizing, glazing and other techniques are done over the base color. When painting on glass, the process of laying down paint is reversed. Thus, if a glaze is required to soften or antique a gilded area, the glaze is applied first as a thin transparent veil and then the gold leaf or gold paint is applied over it. When viewed from the front, the first paint laid down is the first seen. The technique results in a painted surface which is protected by the glass.
Objects rendered in this way take on an intriguing, lustrous appearance similar to porcelain, fine enamel work or lacquer. Artisans have employed the process in Europe, East Asia and north Africa for over 250 years.
The Maitland-Smith artisans are masters at this art form. This table top is a wonderful example of reverse glass painting. Various shades of gold paint were used to create this wheat design which is repeated in the outside circle. The table itself is antique black with gold accents.
A completely different look for Eglomise is seen on this set of six floral wall art pieces. Here the artist used a larger variety of color and painted the flowers in the foreground and then added a silver background which complements the Chablis silver finish on the frames.
You can imagine how difficult this is to do. Besides having skill to paint beautifully, the artist has to be able to do it backwards. This boggles my mind.
Tabletops, wall art, lighting - any flat surface - can sport a piece of reverse painted glass. This chandelier and chiffonier show other examples of places where reverse painted glass completely sets the tone of the piece.
If you have not been familiar with Verre Eglomise, be sure to look for reverse painted glass when you visit your favorite furniture store that carries fine home furnishings. You will be able to appreciate the skill, time and attention to detail that goes into each piece.
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