The Technique
Verre Églomisé - reverse painted and gilded glass images using cold application of precious leaf (gold, silver) to the back of glass – with engraving.
Reverse glass painting or, in German, ‘Hinterglasmalerei’ is painted by the artist on the reverse side of a sheet of glass. In this unique style of art, which has a long tradition in Europe and Asia and parts of Africa, the entire process of the painting must be done in reverse and in mirror image. The painting will eventually by viewed from the unpainted side of the glass.
The artist must therefore work in a very different fashion than traditional methods used on paper or canvas. For example, in a portrait painting, the eyes would have to be painted first (rather than last as in traditional painting) and then flesh colour of the face behind the eyes.
Paintings on glass require intricate skill and are particularly clear, detailed and vibrant. Please note that the full detail and clarity of this work is not captured by the images on the website.