Trompe l'oeil

 

There really is no limit to the amount of research I go to in order to entertain, inform and educate you in these articles I write here. Today we talk about Trompe l'oeil.

It is a French term which means to deceive the eye. Often used by painters to make you look at a particular place in their masterpieces. Like this example known as Trompe-l'Oeil Still Life with a Flower Garland and a Curtain by Adrien van der Spelt with the curtain painted by Frans van Mieris. Your eyes are drawn to the curtain (pun intended) rather than the flowers.

How about this by an unknown artist. Your eyes are immediately drawn to the fly rather than the painting itself.

Or this Lady With a Fly on her Shoulder (circa 1596) by Frans van der Mijn.

I'll admit my eyes were immediately drawn to the fly on her shoulder!

And another thing ...

Did you know that some urinals have a fly deliberately painted in them to help men aim properly? Do you know anyone who needs this help?