It was in Limoges, France, in 1828 that Paul de Bourgoing invented the Lithophane (VotivelightTM), a traditional engraving technique on a fine bisque (non-glazed) porcelain. The glow of the candle shines through the raised and carved surface of the votive contrasting light against shadow, revealing its richly detailed design. Its surprising translucency is characteristic of Limoges porcelain and Bernardaud has created a vast lithophane collection of varying themes.
Luminettes and lithophanes are different of usual candles and lanterns by an original design directly inscribed on a porcelain plate, obtained by varying the thickness of the plate. They are composed with a lid and a cup (for easy replacement of tealight) and once enlightened, they will highlight the wonderful drawings worked on its cover.
