The concept of Fancy in oil painting often leads us toward the “Grand Manner” or the Rococo  style, where the focus is on elegance, ornament, and a certain playful sophistication. In these works, “fancy” isn’t just about the subject matter; it’s about the virtuosity of the brushwork—how an artist can make oil paint look like shimmering silk, powdered skin, or gilded gold.

Oil paint is the perfect medium for this because of its ability to hold a high gloss and deep saturation. Artists use impasto (thick, textured paint) to create the catchlights on jewelry  or the lace on a dress, making the “fancy” elements feel three-dimensional and tactile.

Let’s explore how to bring this sense of luxury and imagination to the canvas. I’ll ask guiding questions as we look at these three entry points:

1. The Texture of Luxury: Focus on the technical “bravura” brushwork used to mimic expensive fabrics like velvet and satin, and how light interacts with different surfaces.

2. Chinoiserie and Ornament: Explore the historical trend of “fancy” decoration, involving intricate patterns, exotic landscapes, and highly detailed gold-leafing (Gilding) .

3. The “Fancy Picture” Genre: Look at the 18th-century tradition of painting imaginative, sentimental scenes that prioritize mood and charm over strict reality or historical accuracy.

Which of these pathways to the “fancy” side of oil painting appeals to you most?