Indonesian reverse painted vignette depicts several odd-looking characters in Indian garb. A pagoda-like structure is visible in the distance with a pair of gray squirrels perched on top. Fantastical trees are ornamented with red and yellow flowers. Also portrayed in this exotic image are figures of parrots, snakes and flying horses. Overall with frame this piece measures apprx 19" H x 35" W. Image alone measures apprx 16" H x 31" W.
Long known and practiced in the Orient, reverse painting enjoyed its greatest popularity in America during the early 1800's. This unusual artform requires the artist to paint the design on reverse side of the glass so it can be viewed from the other. Because of this, scenes must be painted in mirror image so that when the glass is turned over the objects will appear accurate. Things in the foreground are painted on first, so the artist must envision the composition backwards.
75/150 Sold $69.00
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