#lithophane process

What?!

Just kidding!

Three REAL Facts about the Lithophane:

1.  A lithophane is an etched or molded design in very thin porcelain.  The porcelain is then backlit by a light source.  The resulting image is soft and ethereal.

                                           Assorted Lithophane Night Lights by Porcelain Garden

2.  Lithophanes are credited as being the invention of Baron Paul du Bourguignon from the Rubelles province of France in 1827.  However, there is evidence of the Chinese using this process to trace floral designs on the sides of paper-thin porcelain vases well before the 19th century.

                                              "Misty Meadow" Luminaire Lamp by Porcelain Garden

3.  The first lithophanes were carved by hand, but eventually different methods were created.  Today there are three ways to create Lithophanes:

  The Wax Carving method.  This method is one of the original European methods of creating lithophanes and is still used today.  First, a wax original is carved over a light source in a positive relief.  A plaster cast is then made of the wax carving.  Porcelain slip is poured into the plaster mold and the resulting casting is then fired to create the finished lithophane.  

 The Photographic Process method.  This method involves painting a light sensitive emulsion onto thin porcelain and exposing light through a negative creating a positive print onto the lithophane.  In this method, depth and contrast are created through the photograph, not from physically manipulating the surface of the lithophane.  

 The Computer Numerical Code Machine method.  This method involves using a computer and 3D printer to carve a digital image into a plaster relief which can then be used as a mold to cast the lithophane (see Wax Carving method).  

  New Moon Gallery carries the Porcelain Garden line of assorted lithophane night lights and lamps.  Porcelain Garden has been in business for thirty years.  Using traditional methods of making lithophanes (individually casting, drying, firing, and inspecting each piece) their small staff is dedicated to creating beautiful and quality lithophane products in their studio located in California.  

 And you can find them year-round right here at New Moon Gallery!