Faux painting is closely similar to decorative painting, and both are understood by many as synonyms . This can be visualized in a glance over a long history of mankind which has witnessed the artistic temperament of man.Decorating the environment has been prime objective of art lovers since ages. To achieve this objective he has been applying numerous techniques. Concept of Faux Painting also finds its origin in this disposition of man.

History of Faux Painting

From primitive people to ancient Egypt to ancient Greeks and ancient Romans, various techniques have been used by man to enhance the view of its surroundings. During Middle Ages magnificent frescoes were produced on the themes of court life and spirituality. The techniques applied were different from earlier used ones as the widespread use of the binding materials like resin and gum was observed for making paintings.

Renaissance period also witnessed development of new materials for the purpose of decorative painting. During this time the pigments derived from various chemicals were widely used. Spectacular frescoes and trompe l'oeil masterpieces made in this era speak volumes about the evolution of decorative paintings The methods of lacquering and varnishing marked the style in 17 th century. In this period, whole Europe seemed interested in this form of art. The remarkable work in the Palace of Versailles gives a clear testimony. Oil paintings were getting attention parallely during 18 th century.

In 19 th century, new techniques in form of wood graining, marbleizing and trompe l'oiel, helped further in expansion of the idea of Faux Painting. This period also witnessed the emergence of institutes and schools that provided proper instructions to the artists. New and innovative materials were developed, along with new pigments in this time period. Until the rise of the Impressionist and Neo-Impressionist painters like Monet and Renoir, artists such as Delacroix and Ingres, both trained in decorative painting institutes, were paramount and their work unrivalled in this era.

In the 2 nd and 3 rd decades of 20th century also decorative painting was on a rise but post World War period suffered the lowest popularity of decorative painting. It was observed largely due to the growing popularity of innovative styles like Picasso and Matisse's great works.

Present Scenario

In the past two decades popularity of this painting technique has scaled great heights. A renewed interest in the innovative techniques, as well as the development of outstanding alkyds, acrylics and implements, are the primary reasons for this new incarnation of decorative painting. There are several evidences of decorative paintings around us today, which extol the popularity of faux paintings at places like a home, a work environment, a restaurant, or any other environment. Many of the techniques applied by faux painters are to imitate natural fabrics and materials and they are most of the times unobservable to the untrained eye.