Ceiling décor | Then and now
FROM THE SISTINE CHAPEL TO THE PALACE OF VERSAILLES, THE CEILING HAS BEEN USED THROUGH THE CENTURIES AS A SHOW OF WEALTH AND A CANVAS FOR SOME OF THE MOST PROMINENT STORIES OF MYTHOLOGY AND RELIGION, EACH REFLECTING THE CULTURAL CONTEXT OF THEIR TIME. BUT WHY HAVE THESE SPACESUTILISED THE FIFTH WALL AND WHAT SIGNIFICANCE HAS IT REPRESENTED OVER TIME?
HEAVENLY DESIGN
The Vatican’s world-famous Sistine Chapel fresco by Michelangelo, commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1508 took four years to complete and illustrates much of the doctrine of the Catholic Church. A dramatisation unlike any other, Michelangelo’s high renaissance art created an immersive experience which aimed to elevate worshippers' prayer through art that was considered closer to heaven.
COMPLEMENTING ARCHITECTURE
Historical architecture is a subject close to our hearts and varying ceiling styles from vaulted cathedrals to Roman domes demonstrate the impressive and innovative architectural elements used over time. Working to decorate these vast ceiling spaces, some artists used techniques such as trompe-l'œil, giving the illusion of grander scale. Others beckoned viewers to look up and admire not only the art but the incredible architecture supporting it.
MAKING A STATEMENT
Without doubt the most famous of all the rooms at The Palace of Versailles is The Hall of Mirrors. Dating back to the 1660’s, this striking room pays tribute to the domestic, political, and military success of France under Louis XIV. The ceiling comprises 30 works of art each depicting stories of victory and prestige. Any visitor to this room would have been in little doubt of the power and achievement of France’s absolute monarchy. Quite the historical PR piece!
SOCIAL STATUS
It is not just paintings which have adorned ceilings in the hope to impress those that visit. From ancient times, through to the Georgian and Victorian era, decorative plasterwork has been used as a mark of social status. Highly ornate plasterworks were used to amplify the grandeur of the room and showcase high levels of craftsmanship. We take great pride in restoring and where required reinstating these stunning details to much the same effect.
Fast forward to present day and we still see the ceiling playing a pivotal role in luxury contemporary interiors, whether it be the use of colour, wallcoverings or experimenting with fabrics. The ceiling is an integral part of the design helping to elevate a space. You can see more of the ceilings we admire over on our curated Pinterest board.
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As we near Christmas, talk in the studio has turned to what we’re buying for family and friends, as well as the last-minute panic of getting everything ready for the big day. So, we’re taking a moment to indulge in some of the team’s personal wish lists and share what we hope to receive from Santa this year!
As we near Christmas, talk in the studio has turned to what we’re buying for family and friends, as well as the last-minute panic of getting everything ready for the big day. So, we’re taking a moment to indulge in some of the team’s personal wish lists and share what we hope to receive from Santa this year!
Each year, the clocks going back signifies the transition from summer to autumn as well as the start of a new season.
Each year, the clocks going back signifies the transition from summer to autumn as well as the start of a new season.
We are delighted to have launched our new brand identity. In OB Musings Edition No.3 we take a look behind the scenes.
We are delighted to have launched our new brand identity. In OB Musings Edition No.3 we take a look behind the scenes.