What is a reverse painting?

A reverse painting is created by painting a subject onto one side of a sheet of glass (or plexiglass) after which it is viewed from the other side of the glass, or through the glass.
Contrary to painting on a canvas or similar support this technique requires an artist to paint in reverse, or 'back to front'.
Normally when an artwork is created on a support such as canvas, wood, or even on a wall, it is painted from the same angle and direction that it will ultimately be viewed from when completed. However, in the case of a reverse painting the painted side of the artwork (applied on one side of the glass) and the viewing side (perceived from the other side of the glass) means that the painted side of the artwork and the viewing side are opposed to one another.
Similarly, an artwork that is created on a canvas will usually begin with a rough outline and then gradually develop towards its completion and finishing touches. In the case of a reverse painting this procedure will begin where it would normally end. This means that the finishing touches such as finer details and the artist's signature will be applied first (rather than last), and the background applications of colour will be added later (instead of at the beginning). It is for this specific reason that the term 'reverse painting' is popularly used when describing this unusual and intricate painting technique which involves the use of glass as a support.
The effect that glass can give to a reverse painting can make it a very beautiful object.
For those who see a reverse painting on glass for the very first time it can take a little while to realise that what appears to be a painting under a protective sheet of glass is in reality an artwork that has been painted on the glass itself.

Mayanne Mackay has specialised in the technique of reverse painting on glass for more than 25 years. More information about this subject including history, characteristics and materials in 'A GUIDE TO REVERSE PAINTING ON GLASS' at http://www.artpostermania.com (website in English and French)