ITS HISTORY


The word decoupage is derived from the French word decouper which
means to cut out.  Decoupage is the creative art of cutting,
re-assembling, pasting (or glueing) and finally varnishing paper
designs for decorating objects. The word itself is a 20th century
word but the art of decoupage has a very long and fascinating
history, dating back several centuries that can be traced back to
many different and distant countries.

In the late 17th century oriental lacquered objects became
fashionable in Europe.  It was mostly in the form of furniture and
came from the Far East.  Wealthy people hired painters to paint their
furniture and to decorate their walls and ceilings with various
designs including country scenes, animals, birds and flowers.  
However because this was very expensive and much in demand,
another form of decoration developed.  Drawings were cut out,
re-assembled, glued to surfaces or objects and covered with lacquer
thus resembling original paintings.  This was termed poor man's art
from
l'arte del povero.

During the 18th and 19th centuries this decorative art became very
popular and flourished all over Europe including the houses of the
upper classes and royalty.  Common people with a flair for the art
snipped away at pictures and glued them onto boxes, fire screens
and furniture.  Many works of distinguished artists ended up in this
way.  There are many magnificent pieces of furniture or objets d'art
in museums or private homes and are a fine example of fine cutting
and colouring, pasting and lacquering.

Over the years decoupage has been practised by many famous
people and artists including Marie Antoinette, Madame de
Pompadour, Lord Byron and recently Matisse and Picasso.




Today decoupage has definitely made a come-back across the world
and is being taught in its many forms. With such an interesting and
long history, it is not at all surprising that decoupage is still evolving
with different styles and techniques.


Nowadays decoupage has become a fascinating art in its limitless
forms.  However you should not be discouraged by its complexity.  
Anyone who knows how to use scissors and glue can do
decoupage!
 Once you try your hand at this art and use your
imagination, the possibilities are endless. And hey presto, you will
progress from simple designs to more complex works of art - you are
on the way to becoming a decoupeur!

Indeed the art of decoupage offers you an opportunity for endless
hours of creativity as well as enjoyment.  The finished product will
certainly prove to be your trophy of pride and satisfaction for years
to come.  Given as a gift to a loved one or a special friend will bring
lasting memories.  And if preserved in years to come, it might even
end up as a valuable antique!

 

                                                            


 
   

 

ABOUT DECOUPAGE