Object Identification
- Object name: Reverse painted glass
- Origin: London
- Date: 1802
- Maker: W.N. Walker
- Materials: Glass, oil paint, gauche
Object Summary
This object represents 19th-century English art, emphasizing religion and devotion, key themes of the era. It contributes to the study of Christian iconography and European religious art, reflecting the significance of visual storytelling in a time of limited literacy.
The technique used is rare and specialised, producing richer colours on glass than traditional canvas paintings. Surviving examples from the early 1800s are scarce due to glass’s fragility, increasing its rarity and craftsmanship value. The painting was done in reverse meaning details and shadows were painted first and the background was done last. This was most likely done by putting the glass on an easel with a mirror across to track the progress step by step and assess the painting after every step. During the early 1800’s glass painting was done using oil paints and gauche, then varnished to enhance the appearance of the paint, increasing its durability and protecting it from surface damage.
This object was conserved by Aaliyah Adams. Find out more about her by clicking on the profile below!
Aaliyah Adams
