Glycine 3 1896

Maurice Pillard Verneuil designed this pochoir print, called Glycine 3. The pochoir technique involves stenciling, and was developed in France as a way of creating high-quality, limited-edition prints. It was a hand-made process requiring skilled artisans to painstakingly apply each color individually through a series of stencils. Here we see this labor intensive technique used to create a series of stylized images of wisteria flowers. Each color was carefully chosen to evoke the natural beauty of the plant, from the delicate purples of the petals to the rich greens of the leaves. The texture and weight of the paper also contribute to the overall effect, giving the print a tactile quality that invites closer inspection. Verneuil designed his artworks like patterns to be used in the decorative arts and design. Looking at Glycine 3, we can begin to question these categories, recognizing the skill and artistry involved in its production, and challenging the traditional hierarchy that places fine art above craft.