‘Trompe l’oeil’, literally translated from French means ‘deceives the eye’.Through the skillful use of paint, trompe l’oeil artists can create a three dimensional image on a two dimensional plane. The illusion usually works from a distance and is only discovered upon close scrutiny when the viewer realises the deception. The techniques used by trompe l’oeil artists involve extremely realistic imagery and demand a high degree of technical ability.
A small element of trompe l’oeil can add a light hearted touch to a room. On a grander scale, It can open up a room to suggest a larger space or even depict vistas beyond.
I liked the witty trompe l’oeil bookcase painted on one wall
The Guardian 3/11/07