Verre églomisé artworks have also been referred to as “moving paintings,” thanks to a shimmering finish that gives the impression they’ve somehow come to life. But what is Verre églomisé, exactly? Here, we dive into the world of this incredibly intricate, centuries-old technique, from its origins to how it’s created – and, most importantly, how you can make use of it in your own space today.
Verre églomisé artworks possess a unique characteristic distinct from traditional paintings; they appear to shift and transform when viewed from different angles. This captivating effect is achieved through the ancient technique of meticulously applying metal leaf, patterns, and colours by hand to the back surface of the glass. As a result, the artwork’s appearance changes depending on the observer’s perspective. You’ll occasionally find the term Verre églomisé listed under “foxed glass” or “distressed mirror glass” as well, though this is not strictly correct.
The technique of Verre églomisé has ancient origins, tracing back to the late antiquity period. Throughout history, it experienced rediscovery in various places, including 16th-century Italy, followed by Holland and Spain in subsequent centuries, and later in France, England, and the United States. Interestingly, it wasn’t until the 18th century that the technique received its current name, attributed to Jean-Baptise Glomy. An art-dealer and decorator, he is celebrated for reviving this time-honoured technique and bringing it into the modern era.
Similar to other gilding methods, Verre églomisé relies on the use of micron-thin gold, silver or other metal leaf to adorn a particular surface.
In contrast to oil, acrylic, or water-based gilding methods, Verre églomisé is a unique technique that focuses exclusively on glass. It involves the application of metal leaf to the rear side of the glass, rather than applying it to the face.
Combining gilding with painted designs, Verre églomisé requires artists to work in a reverse order to create designs or images, making it one of the most challenging techniques to master.
With our own Verre églomisé creations, we take pride in offering an extensive selection of styles using a diverse range of materials, including both precious and non-precious metal leaf. Our artworks are further enhanced by employing specialised painting techniques, resulting in truly unique and unparalleled outcomes.
During the creation of our Verre églomisé artworks, we employ the same gelatine adhesive used in the water-based technique. The adhesive is dissolved in water and then carefully “floated” over the glass surface, allowing for swift application of the gold while the surface remains moist. This process demands that our artists work with both great speed and skill to accomplish these precise and intricate works.
In today’s world, Verre églomisé offers a vast array of possibilities, ranging from intricate floral patterns to modern geometric designs, subtle decorative accents to large-scale surfaces. The versatility knows almost no bounds. These artworks not only possess the power to brighten up a room through their reflective properties but also create an illusion of more space, much like traditional mirrors. The added touch of shimmering metal leaf makes these pieces truly unique and are an exceptional addition to any space.
Incorporating Verre églomisé into your interior design opens up a world of possibilities across different styles and spaces. Whether you embrace traditional elegance, contemporary flair, or a fusion of both, Verre églomisé can enhance the overall ambience.
At our studio, the possibilities of Verre églomisé artworks are limitless. From exquisite bespoke wall art to furniture embellishments like cabinet doors, tabletops, and even shower screens, we cater to diverse requests, including the creation of traditional mirrors. Our artistic aesthetic seamlessly blends classic and contemporary elements, achieved through a masterful fusion of figurative, organic, and abstract patterns. The result is a rich array of designs that caters to a wide range of tastes and interior styles, ensuring each piece is a true reflection of timeless elegance and modern sophistication.
From yachts to private homes, we often use Verre églomisé to add interest to interior spaces, from incredibly detailed designs, like our Jungle Scenescape design, to modern ideas, like the graphic novel-inspired swimming pool (pictured above) that we created for a private London residence.
Looking for something more understated? We have an array of minimalist options that focus on showcasing a beautiful interplay of colours and textures. From classic gold to sparkling turquoise, these designs are sure to captivate with their elegant simplicity.
Verre églomisé, with its centuries-long history as a decorative technique, continues to find its place in modern interiors.
At our studio, we offer a plethora of ways to incorporate this timeless art form into your space. Whether you desire an intricately detailed artwork to accentuate your interior or a captivating large-scale mural custom-made for your wall, we are here to bring your vision to life.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today, and let us know about your project. We’ll work closely with you to create a concept that aligns perfectly with your vision.
About DKT Artworks
DKT Artworks is a London based company, specialising in bespoke decorative finishes and site-specific artworks. Our specialist decoration services include bas-reliefs and sculptures to paint finishes, murals, stucco and polished plaster, as well as gilding, Verre églomisé and antiqued mirrors, hand-crafted mosaics and decorated furniture. Since its inception in 1979, DKT has been supporting the best interior designers, carrying out a wide range of projects in London, UK and overseas. DKT brings over 40 years of experience at the highest level across sectors, including high-end Residential, Hospitality, Corporate Offices and Superyachts. Working with a wide range of materials, our 40-strong team are expert in both traditional and modern finishes, as well as figurative or abstract designs.
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Liang & Eimil, a name synonymous with sophistication and innovation in the world of interior furnishings, proudly introduces its latest triumph—the all-new Chair and Table Collection. With a decade of unrivaled expertise in crafting exquisite furniture, Liang & Eimil once again elevates interior design to new heights with this stunning addition to their repertoire.
Crafted to perfection, the Chair and Table Collection is a testament to Liang & Eimil's unwavering commitment to blending style, comfort, and functionality. This collection features an array of modern yet timeless pieces, each designed to seamlessly integrate into a variety of interior aesthetics.
Armchairs in Neutral Shades with Solid Wooden Legs: Embrace understated elegance with our armchairs, available in a palette of neutral shades. The addition of solid wooden legs infuses warmth and sophistication into any space.
Dining Chairs with Versatile Leg Options: Choose from dining chairs with solid wooden legs for a classic touch or steel legs for a modern twist. This versatility allows you to create a dining area that perfectly suits your style.
Bar Stools with Backrest: Our bar stools provide not only comfort but also support with their backrest design. Elevate your kitchen or bar area with these stylish and functional seating solutions.
Faux Marble Side Tables and Coffee Tables: The collection introduces a range of faux marble side tables and coffee tables with glass tops. These eye-catching pieces effortlessly combine luxury and practicality.
Upholstery in Neutral Shades and Autumnal Colors: The chair upholstery is available in a selection of neutral shades for a timeless look. For those seeking a touch of autumnal warmth, explore hues of rust orange and ochre that evoke the spirit of the season.
In addition to the Chair and Table Collection launch, Liang & Eimil is thrilled to announce two exciting developments:
Decorex Exhibition: Some of the exquisite pieces from our new collection will be proudly exhibited at Decorex in London Olympia this October on stand C33. This prestigious event is a must-visit for design enthusiasts and industry professionals. Explore our latest offerings in person and be captivated by the beauty of Liang & Eimil's craftsmanship.
New Showroom in Shoreditch: We are delighted to unveil our new showroom in the heart of the vibrant design district in Shoreditch. Nestled just a stone's throw away from Liverpool Street station, this showroom promises to be a convenient and accessible hub for all your interior design needs. Join us as we celebrate the opening in October, and immerse yourself in the world of style and sophistication. The showroom will be located at 4 Ravey Street, London, EC2A 4QP. Opening times are Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm.
The Chair and Table Collection from Liang & Eimil is more than just furniture; it is a testament to the brand's commitment to impeccable craftsmanship and design excellence. Each piece is crafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring that it not only enhances your living space but also stands the test of time.
Whether you are an interior design professional seeking to impress your clients or a homeowner looking to elevate your living space, Liang & Eimil's Chair and Table Collection offers the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality.
About Liang & Eimil
Liang & Eimil, a British brand that specialises in furnishing design for the residential and hospitality sectors, believes in making ordinary moments remarkable. Renowned for producing expertly crafted furniture, lighting and accessories, they take pride in offering innovative solutions that can be tailored to any interior design aesthetic.
Designing a luxury hotel in one of the most vibrant metropolises means creating functional environments with a refined design, finding solutions capable of ensuring guests the best conditions of comfort, with a focus on sustainability.
It is with these premises in mind that for the Nobu Hotel Shoreditch, in London, the modular flooring Frammenti was chosen, made of oak from well-managed and responsible forests.
Thanks to its extraordinary versatility, Frammenti is the perfect solution for every type of environment. The geometric design of the modular floor, which makes it resemble an abstract, contemporary mosaic, is reminiscent of the creative flow and dynamism of the metropolis.
The customised finish was realised by Foglie d'Oro to indulge the creative intuition of the designer and contribute to building the aesthetic identity of the spaces of a luxury hotel, whose attention to detail is one of its most distinctive aspects.
The ability to create customised floors, starting from the designer's drawing and the client's needs, is one of the reasons why Foglie d'Oro is chosen by architects and interior designers all over the world.
Would you like to choose a Foglie d'Oro floor or realise your own customised solution in both finish and format? Discover more here.
About Foglie d’Oro
Foglie d’Oro is Europe’s leading manufacturer of sophisticated design wood floors, XL wide planks, and American walnut floors. Based in Italy, the company has been chosen by A&D to work on turnkey projects for over 50 years, developing a reputation for excellence all around the world.
Premium manufacturer Dornbracht enhances the kitchen assortment: From now, the Lot series of fittings created by Sieger Design will be available as a single-lever mixer, and in new finishes. The fitting blends perfectly into the “Layers of Black” kitchen architecture.
Striking and variable: Lot by Dornbracht Precise architectonic expression, combined with striking, minimalist aesthetics: Lot features a flat, one-piece spout that makes the fitting seem almost sculptural. The new single-lever mixer – also offered with a rinsing spray on the side – adds another variant to the series. Lot is also available, amongst others, as a two-hole fitting and as a Bar Tap. The warm tone of the new Champagne (22kt Gold) and Brushed Champagne (22kt Gold) finishes is captivating, whereas the Dark Chrome finish exudes an impressive, mystical elegance. Chrome, Brushed Platinum, Platinum, Brushed Durabrass (23kt Gold), and Brushed Dark Platinum complete the range of finishes.
“Layers of Black”: a kitchen architecture for purists The “Layers of Black” kitchen architecture shows how the Lot single-lever mixer combines harmoniously with its surroundings. The design is intended for purists and perfectionists: graceful, back to basics, without any unnecessary decorative elements. Dark stained wooden surfaces shape the minimalist ambience, with high-quality materials such as glass and natural stone. Timeless black – combined in different nuances and textures – seemingly commanding and stylistically assured, yet also radiating mystical depth. The fitting by Dornbracht in Brushed Dark Platinum or in Platinum belongs naturally in this structure.
About Dornbracht
Dornbracht, with headquarters in Iserlohn, Germany, is a leading specialist for superior designer fittings and accessories for bathrooms, spas and kitchens. The company was founded in 1950 and today is internationally renowned among architects, designers and luxury consumers for its product portfolio in more than 125 markets.
Following the success of the award-winning Armstrong kitchen collection, the British brassware and sanitaryware manufacturer Perrin & Rowe has taken this design DNA into the bathroom. Combining an industrial aesthetic with a designer’s eye for balance and proportion, Armstrong offers a luxurious take on a pared-back design trend, with distinctive knurled handles and raised levers paying homage to our industrial past.
Perrin & Rowe’s foundry in Wolverhampton is just a short walk from the former site of the Stafford Road Railway Works. From 1858, it produced over 800 steam engines for the Great Western Railway. Most were designed by two brothers, Joseph and George Armstrong. Intended as durable workhorses, their locomotives still stir the emotions today. Perrin & Rowe’s Armstrong bathroom collection has been inspired by these brothers, transforming the purely functional into a model of timeless elegance.
Beautifully proportioned with restrained detailing, the Armstrong bathroom collection is one of the most comprehensive ranges Perrin & Rowe has ever launched. For basins, there is a single lever mixer and a dual lever mixer, both available as wall-mounted or deck-mounted. There is a complete Shower Set with hand-shower and overhead rose. Accessories include robe hooks, a paper holder, a towel bar or towel ring, and a matching built-in soap dispenser for a cohesive design. The standout piece is perhaps the freestanding bath-shower mixer. It takes 4-5 hours of skilled polishing to bring this glorious bathroom centrepiece to final perfection.
As with all Perrin & Rowe brassware, the collection is designed by the in-house design team at Rainham in East London. Tap bodies are forged at the Perrin & Rowe foundry in the Black Country using the highest quality brass, poured by hand at 1700° Fahrenheit into moulds. After machining, specialist polishers develop the deep, lustrous finish. It’s a time-consuming and painstaking task.
Armstrong can be specified in Chrome, Nickel or Pewter or a choice of special finishes; 24-carat Gold, Polished Brass, Satin Brass, and English Bronze. Perrin & Rowe’s two brass finishes are unlacquered, so will develop a unique patina over time, enhancing the beauty of the surface. For a true industrial look, English Bronze offers a darker metallic finish that brings out the detail of the knurled handles.
In discussions at House of Rohl’s London showroom, interior designers expressed a strong interest in a range of luxury bathroom brassware with an industrial edge. The Armstrong bathroom collection has been created to match this demand. Previewed earlier this at ISH in Frankfurt and Design Week in London, the initial reaction to the bathroom collection was as positive as it had been for the kitchen collection, some 2½ years earlier. It has already been shortlisted for an international design award by the Society of British & International Interior Designers (SBID). Armstrong is now available in the UK and most EMEAA markets.
About Perrin & Rowe
The World's finest range of bathroom and kitchen fittings. Perrin & Rowe is a British-based brassware and sanitaryware manufacturer with an unrivaled reputation internationally – bringing together traditional craftsmanship and manufacturing methods with precision engineering. Perrin & Rowe is a distinctive member of the House of Rohl.
Those taking part in the Clerkenwell Design Trail from 4th to 5th October can see the one-of-a-kind hidden induction cooking system, CookingRAK, in action at the RAK Ceramics Design Hub at 100 St John Street.
A kitchen worksurface that doubles as a cooking area, seamlessly, CookingRAK features an induction hob is concealed in an ultra-durable porcelain surface, taking the kitchen from meal preparation to social space effortlessly.
This hidden induction cooking system creates a stylish impression in the modern kitchen, combining the high-performance of RAK Ceramics porcelain slabs, with the latest in induction cooking for professional results. The surface itself – available in six styles and a range of colour schemes to suit any décor, is perfect for the busy kitchen environment – resistant to heat, stains and scratches.
Also on display at the Design Hub for the duration of the Clerkenwell Design Trail are the latest RAK Ceramics surfaces, brassware and sanitaryware. Drop in for inspiration and refreshments at 100 St John Street, EC1M 4EH.
About RAK Ceramics Ltd
RAK Ceramics products feature in some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Known for a wide product range and the ability to produce bespoke solutions for both small and large scale projects, RAK Ceramics enable clients to bring their ideas to life. They respect, inspire, improve and deliver; today, tomorrow, no matter the ambition, no matter the challenge, RAK Ceramics take care of all the details, so you don’t have to.
Recycling lies at the core of Bolon's history. Over 70 years ago, the company was founded with the bold idea to create woven flooring out of waste materials. Unlike many others, we go beyond offering a limited eco-collection and instead incorporate recycled materials into all of our products.
To support our commitment to recycling, we have invested in a state-of-the-art integrated recycling facility. This facility efficiently handles all waste materials generated during the production process. In addition to recycling our own waste, we also buy waste from other companies. In 2022 alone the recycling plant processed 1,100 tons of waste, transforming it into new floors.
“I am proud that our sustainability work covers all our products and not just selected niche collections. This means that when it comes to sustainability work, Bolon is the global industry leader”, says Marie Eklund, CEO.
In 2023 the average recycled material content in Bolon's floors was 28%, a number that increases yearly.
When broken down by product types, rolls and rugs contain 22% recycled material, tiles contain 31%, and acoustic flooring boasts an impressive 32% recycled content. Our acoustic flooring goes even further by incorporating post-consumer waste from PET bottles in the felt backing. In 2022, a remarkable 70 tons of post-consumer waste were utilized in the production process.
Our dedication to recycling ensures that Bolon flooring not only exhibits stunning design and durability but also reduces environmental impact by reutilising materials effectively.
Read more about Bolon's sustainability work here!
About Bolon UK
Bolon specialise in the creation of high-performance design floorings. They believe in design for the long run. Where durability and aesthetics are equally important. Where effortless cleanability and maintenance comes naturally, and honest sustainability stands above it all.
This October, Armac Martin will return to the capital to showcase its luxury hardware and accessories collections at Decorex - a staple in the diary of interior designers.
The highlight of the show will be debut of its most decadent collection yet, Cocktail. Two years in the making, Cocktail is inspired by the brand’s hometown of Birmingham, in particular, its celebrated cocktail district. A destination home to noteworthy locations where master mixologists perfect the art of classics with a contemporary twist, the new collection reimagines sophisticated glassware silhouettes and details to form a trio of indulgent design stories.
In addition to the new collection, Armac Martin will also be previewing a range of switches and sockets, a first for the brand, alongside debuting a sophisticated range of luxury bathroom accessories, some of which have been designed in collaboration with Sophie Paterson.
With all pieces designed and manufactured in England, Armac Martin has been dedicated to crafting the finest brass interior details for almost a century. Proudly committed to producing pieces with longevity, Armac Martin incorporates modern-day manufacturing techniques to ensure quality is never compromised. It is this dedication to quality and craftmanship that means its products are favoured by customers the world over.
Melissa McGrail, Head of Sales & Marketing at Armac Martin notes, “We’re delighted to be back in London this October for Decorex. The event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our collections and to connect with our customers in person, it’s something we look forward to each year and with a number of new launches to show, it will be incredible to hear feedback in real time.”
About Armac Martin
Armac Martin design and manufacture some of the world’s finest brass cabinet hardware, for the world's finest interiors. Established in 1929 in Birmingham, England. Armac Martin's reputation is built on quality from skills passed down from generation to generation. Every product is designed in-house, with meticulous attention given to every detail to ensure that our commitment to design and quality is met time and time again. Our extensive range is available in 21 plated and patinated finishes.
Straight-line geometry is having a moment in bathroom design, a trend embodied by the latest additions to the designer RAK-Petit collection of washbasins from RAK Ceramics, now available in square.
Creating a sense of orderliness and simplicity, the straight lines and square profile of the new washbasins in this stylish shape are available in a floorstanding or countertop version in striking Alpine White ceramic. Standing at a tall 900mm high, the floorstanding RAK-Petit Square washbasin is an excellent space-saver in en-suites and cloakrooms where floor space is at a premium, while the countertop version is half as tall yet equally as arresting in appearance.
Created for RAK Ceramics by renowned Italian designer Giuseppe Maurizio Scutellà, RAK-Petit is a collection of small washbasins designed with small spaces in mind. With minimal shapes and small dimensions, the collection includes deep-based washbasins that can be installed alone or combined with RAK-Joy vanity units.
Launching in the brand’s relocated Design Centre showroom ahead of Focus/23, Arteriors are thrilled to present a sixth instalment of their successful collaboration with renowned US interior designer Barry Dixon.
A 19-piece collection of furniture, lighting and decorative accessories, each taking elements of inspiration from the natural world, joins the wider AW23 product showcase this month.
Part of Arteriors’ successful guest designer programme, this collection marks Dixon’s 6th with the brand, having worked together previously for more than 10 years. An expert of residential interior design, working with clients across the US, Dixon is well-known for his mastery of opulence and use of decadent drama within his interior design projects, and has brought elements of this into his product design over the years, creating objects that are classic yet curious.
This season sees designs inspired by the natural world infused with a contemporary twist – for instance the delicate curve of a mosquito’s leg fashioned from blackened iron on four furniture pieces, the mixed metal finishes on overlapping cloud formations seen in the design of the mirror, intertwined vines threading their way through the fire screen, and details on lamps reminiscent of a shepherd’s staff.
These natural influences combine with masculine elements and Arteriors’ fine craftmanship to form a beautiful offering, perfectly suited to Arteriors’ wide network of residential and hospitality interior designer contacts.
Speaking on the collection, Barry Dixon: “We look back to see our way forward... And we look outside to find what we need inside. Each detail unfolds to reveal a world of organic glamour, inspired by nature, that provokes the senses.”
To view the collection, visit the new showroom at 206 Design Centre East, Chelsea Harbour.
About Arteriors
Arteriors began 35 years ago as a boutique accessories company and has evolved into a global force in the design industry. With premier lighting, furniture and accessories, Arteriors redefines interior spaces through unexpected creativity and meticulous craftsmanship.
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