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Theorem Paintings

a unique, Early American art form

What is a Theorem Painting?

A theorem painting uses a set of stencils, or theorems, to complete each design.  It was an art form that was taught at young ladies' finishing schools from the early to the mid-19th century as part of their training in home arts.  Theorems can be painting on white cotton velvet (aged with a bath of coffee or tea) or on heavy paper, using either oils or water colors. 

I use mostly cotton velvet and occasionally paper, but I always use oil paints.  Details are added with a fine brush once the stencils are complete.  Frames are custom made by my husband, and then false-grained or milk-painted in appropriate colors by me.  When I can buy an antique frame at a good price, I'll use that, too.

Below is a small sampling of my work.

Picture
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  • Home
  • About
  • Historic Townscapes
    • list of New Jersey etchings
  • Theorem Paintings
  • Scott's Furniture
  • Boxes Large & Small
  • Store
  • Contact