One of the things that makes the Painted Churches artistically significant is their “trompe l’oiel” effects, which include marbling, graining, stenciling, free-hand and infril. The name translates into “fool the eye,” and as such, these specific techniques are meant to create the effect of various structural designs. For example, marbling and graining are two such techniques that are frequently seen in the painted churches.
Marbling is a painting technique done to mimic marble, and it is commonly seen on the columns and can also be seen in stairwells. This was a creative way to create the look of marble, a resource that was not available due to geographical and financial constraints. Here are some examples:
An example of marbling used on the stairwell at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church in Ammansville, Texas
An example of marbling on the column to left of the window; St. John The Baptist Catholic Church, Ammansville, Texas
Another technique is called graining, and this is used to make cheaper forms of wood, like pine and cedar, resemble more expensive woods such as mahogany and rosewood. It is commonly found on baseboards, molding, and doors, but can also be seen on columns as well. Unfortunately, I don’t have an example of this to post. Note to self: Get picture examples of this to post on my next trip.
This may not be a very interesting post to some, but knowledge of the different effects can make for a fun “scavenger hunt” if you will, to see what effects you can spot at each church. Additionally, this can bring a further appreciation for modern interior design. For example, Idarica Gazzoni, an Italian-based decorator who specializes in textiles and wallpaper with marbling, wood, and gilding effects. She was featured in this month’s issue of Elle Decor.
Sources:
More information about trompe l’oeil effects used in the churches can be found here, and more information about Idarica Gazzoni can be found here and here.
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