Curtains in Raphael’s remarkable trompe l’oeil, concealing a nude, opened by the peeping tom, revealing a lost lover, and as separator between players and spectators.
trompe l’oeil
From the earliest still life paintings, many were designed not just to look realistic, but to deceive the viewer. Examples from van Eyck to the 20th century.
It flourished and brought commercial success to many artists, and laid the foundations for sub-genres. Still lifes were among the most innovative and exciting paintings of the day.
How the Marquis of Mantua overcame the obstinacy of a traditional painter, and gained one of the finest trompes l’ceil in Europe.
Let these paintings fool you: that’s what they’re all about. Happy April Fool’s Day!
The Eclectic Light Company 