Potichomanie is a French word that refers to a technique of painting on ceramics. It is pronounced as pɑtɪʃɔmani, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable, "poti", is pronounced as "pa-tee." The "ch" sound in the third syllable is pronounced as "sh" or "ch" in English, depending on the word. The last syllable, "-manie," is pronounced as "muh-nee," with the stress on the first syllable. Despite its tricky spelling, potichomanie is a beautiful art form that originated in France in the 18th century.
Potichomanie is a decorative art technique originating from the 19th century that involves the application of cut-out, hand-colored prints onto glass or porcelain surfaces. The term "potichomanie" is derived from the French words "potiche" meaning vase or jar, and "manier" meaning to handle or manipulate.
The process of potichomanie begins by selecting desired prints or images, which are then carefully cut and placed onto the desired object. These prints are often taken from sources such as magazines, books, or photographs. The prints may be painted or embellished before being adhered to the object, enhancing their artistic quality.
Once the images are secured onto the surface, a transparent adhesive or varnish is applied, creating a smooth and protective layer over the illustrations. This process not only provides durability but also enhances the vibrant colors and intricate details of the prints.
Potichomanie enables a variety of objects to be transformed into visually appealing and unique pieces of art. It was commonly applied to glass or porcelain vases, jars, and bowls, but can also be used on other surfaces like trays, boxes, or even furniture.
Today, potichomanie is considered a specialized and niche artistic technique, primarily employed by artists, collectors, or enthusiasts. The practice continues to retain its historical charm and craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the creativity and skill of earlier generations.
The word "Potichomanie" is derived from the French language. It is made up of two components:
1. "Potiche" - This word in French refers to a decorative vase or a ceramic container used as an ornament or for holding flowers. It originated from the Italian word "potica", which means "vase" or "pot". The term "potiche" gained popularity in the 17th century as the name for a decorative pottery item.
2. "Manie" - This term in French means "mania" or "obsession". It comes from the Latin word "mania", which was borrowed from Greek and means "madness" or "rage".
When combined, "Potichomanie" literally means the obsession or passion for potiches.