Glossary of Terms:

 

 

Chinoiserie

Is the expressive and creative imaginings of the 17th and 18th century European vision of Cathay –

the meeting of East and West.  A mixture of Chinese, Japanese, Indian and Persian design combined

into a decorative style for the embellishment of architecture, furniture,  wallpanels, objet, textiles and

ceramics.

Boulle

Brilliant surface decoration using combinations of inlayed metal and tortoise shell on grounds of red and

black named for Andre Charles Boulle, premier cabinet maker to Louis XIV.

Singerie

Paintings of playful, satirical depictions of monkeys attired in elaborate costume pursuing the pleasures of

court life in 18th century France.

Gilding

The process that adheres thin sheets of metal; gold, silver, platinum, aluminum and copper to carved and flat

surfaces, architectural elements, furniture, screens and panels.

 

Grotesques

Painted patterns and designs infused with strange beasts, fantastic creatures, fanciful flowers, swags,

ribbons, etc. discovered on walls and ceilings in the grottoes among the ancient  ruins of Rome and Pompeii. Re-

interpreted and a popular form of decoration in the Italian and French Renaissance.

 

Grisaille

Monochromatic painting using subtle shades of washed applied color – layered one upon the other to create

dimension in imitation of bas-relief. Most often used in representing architectural elements.

 

Trompe L’oeil

Decorative painted illusion (i.e. ornately carved surfaces, trillage, swags, architectural elements etc..) that

seduces and fools the eye and challenges the spectators perception of the images represented.

 

Boiserie

Composition ornament, moldings and paneling adapted to include painting and glazing techniques applied to

add depth, richness and patina.

Marquetry / Parquetry

Thin veneers of various beautifully colored woods, metals and mother of pearl in curvilinear and geometric

design used to decorate the surfaces of wall panels, furniture and floors.

 

Verre Eglomise

Reverse painting and gilding behind glass using combinations of etched gold, silver leaf and

polychrome color.

Faux Marbre

A painted trompe l’oeil effect that imitates the look of marble.