Optical principles are straightforward, but can become extremely complex in practice. Examples from Jan van Eyck to Hodler and Signac.
optics
The hard road to realism: development and propagation of knowledge, how to apply it in paintings, and its benefit on visual art.
Blurring for dramatic effect, and to mimic photographic depth of field effects, were used in the 19th century, but motion blur came later.
There were few good reasons to blur what should be sharp edges in paintings. Aerial perspective and Vermeer’s unusual optical effects explored in paintings.
Did Vermeer use a camera obscura? What went wrong with Impressionist oil sketches? When did Klimt paint from photographs? Does any of this really detract from the art in a painting?
The way that distant hills fade in contrast, detail and colour, and how their hue shifts towards cooler colours. From Antonello (1475) to Thomas Girtin.
He developed from the style and optics of Vermeer’s paintings, limiting depth of field to develop bokeh. And he painted ‘problem pictures’ too.
The paintings of Johannes Vermeer (1632–1675) were quickly forgotten after his death, and his art fell into obscurity. […]
More jewels and jewellery, including a portrait of Queen Victoria, Salome, Helen of Troy, and two of Klimt’s golden girls.
If you thought glassware was tough, try painting gems and jewellery. Here are a few paintings where this has worked, including two of Rembrandt’s.
The Eclectic Light Company 