Lithophanes reveal their true magic when backlit by flickering light. Hung in windows as decoration or molded into lampshades, lamps, or veilleuses (food and beverage warmers), these three-dimensional images in translucent porcelain became increasingly popular in the mid-19th century. Their motifs, which included genre scenes, idyllic landscapes, tranquil urban scenes, and copies of paintings, provide an impressive depiction of the home life and milieu of the period's emerging middle class. This comprehensive guide covers not only porcelain objects but also special forms of lithophanes. Shining Stone explores this unique art form particularly in the context of the historical development of lithophane manufacturers from the 18th to the 20th century, the majority of which were located in Germany
and France. The book also provides descriptions of individual pieces, with information on product origin, marks, and backstamps. The author sheds light on individual phases of development and interrelationships, and corrects the misinformation and errors that have been propagated over the years.