French matting is a technique in which an artisan applies transparent watercolor washes, and fine hand-inked lines around the perimeter of a matted work of framed art.
According to lore, the art developed in late 18th and early 19th century Europe, and was then subsequently almost lost as the Industrial Revolution swept through the Continent. It was resuscitated during the 20th Century, used largely for engravings and other works depicting classical motifs. Today it is a decorative art still widely used in framing traditional works of art, but also for more contemporary pieces such as photography and modern art.
Due to the painstaking handiwork necessary for a beautifully made French mat, the number of professional designers who specialize in creating these designs is somewhat limited. Heba Elbanna has nine years of experience in the techniques of French matting, which combine her skills as a framer with her enthusiasm and talent for design.
Tresorie is thrilled to offer this beautiful, time-honored technique to its retail and wholesale customers.