Saturday, April 11, 2009

The Elusive European Blue






I have been drawn to this glorious color throughout my life.  To me, it represents all things wonderful in France and Italy.  Not blue or green by American standards, european blue is a dull,  watery blend of green and blue, often with a patina that is hard to replicate.  After many trips to Europe, I have decided years of pollutants including candle soot, diesel exhaust and nicotine give this color it's unique patination!



This door is in the heart of Venice. Years of Adriatic salt and weather have only enhanced the watery color.






                                                            detail of door

Even Zuber handblocked wallpaper is famous for use of this color.
The placemats used in Laduree exhibit the same hues.
This fabulous wall is from Le Musee Les Arts Decoratifs in Paris. 
Oxidation of copper dome-Paris


The picture at the top of the post is the results of this journey. My client simply wanted this reproduction console to "look like Europe".  It was achieved using Farrow and Ball colors Card Room Green, Berrington Blue, rottenstone, lime washes and other techniques.

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