As a follow-up to last week's column, I have photos for my contribution to the Big Window Challenge contest. I know this is already all over the internet, but I wanted a few pictures of the completed project under my by-line.
I was charged with creating a set of trompe-'loeil bookcases to round out the concept of a writer's lair, in a play-set palette of dark browns. The inspiration was tompe-l’oeil painting and frescoes of yore, especially the Gubbio Studiolo at the Met, a room made of wood marquetry. Go to the site page to see the other windows, details on the wallpaper and furnishings and vote for your favorite window.
- Mark Chamberlain, interior and decorative painter
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I take issue with calling this trompe l'oeil. By definition, trompe l'oeil is a painting so meticulously done that it fools the eye into thinking it is real. That is not what this is. This is a painting on a wall of a bookcase and we know very well it is only a painting, as we are meant to. The word is also used for some faux finishes that look very realistic.
Plus One /\/\
THANK YOU gettingthere! I was having the same issues with calling this trompe l'oeil. It's a lovely job, but under a false name.
I thought I was going to be the only one annoyed enough to complain about calling this trompe l'oeil. Not tricking the eye, but pretty nonetheless.
Though I feel Mark is extremely talented, it is unfortunate he didn't go the extra mile. Translation of Trompe L'oeil means 'trick the eye'. Unfortunately his masterpiece lacks color.