Oeil de boeuf: in English, “eye of the steer”, “bull’s eye”, “ox eye” – these are all common translations. This architectural detail is defined as a small, round or oval window. Furthermore, it is usually placed in an attic space. Today, this style of window is seen all over the world, but it originated in […]
Versailles Palace from a decorative painter’s eye: Real ornament
May 29, 2013 by 3 Comments
Exterior marble White Carrera, vein-less. You can really see the effect of rain over the years – see the rounding of the carvings. This is a classic, super ornate ceiling. Typical of 19th c and created under Louis Philippe. Notice the trompe l’oeil door. There’s amazing detail achieved in this 18th c, Louis XVI ornament. […]
Versailles Palace from a decorative painter’s eye: Faux Marble
May 21, 2013 by 3 Comments
I absolutely love the execution of this faux marble! On this wainscot, Red and Mixed Campan form a dazzling composition. A very assured and technical panel. Notice the color shift from pink to burgundy – and the pink transition off the green. Painted in the mid 19th c in oil. Green Antique breccia mantle – […]
Versailles Palace from a decorative painter’s eye: Gilding
May 14, 2013 by Leave a Comment
22K, oil size surface leaf on the gate of the Palace of Versailles. Notice the background palace with gilded roof done with same gold. There are several million dollar worth of gold in the gilding at the palace. Remember: real gold is an inalterable material (it does not oxidize or rust) and therefore, perfect for […]
Versailles Palace from a decorative painter’s eye: Real marble
April 23, 2013 by 7 Comments
The Palace of Versailles is a rare find when it comes to examples of real marble. The halls, rooms, and exterior are packed with fine European and French marbles. What is particularly exciting is the care that was taken to place certain species next to one another. Also, the type of “cut” of marble was […]
Versailles Palace from a decorative painter’s eye
April 16, 2013 by 1 Comment
We recently took group of 17 students to tour of Palace of Versailles. The students were painting a panel for 8 days in a studio near by. Check out the class photos. As a child growing up in Paris, it was mandatory for students to visit the Palace once a year. It’s fair to […]
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