Trompe l'oeil, literally meaning "trick the eye," is an art technique that creates and employs an apparently realistic image as a type of optical illusion.

Although the phrase has its origin in the Baroque period, use of trompe l'oeil dates back much further. It refers usually to paintings that are done on objects (usually walls) created with a deliberate attempt at creating false perspectives and effects. For example, if there were a door on one end of a wall, a trompe l'oeil painting might be done at the other end, complete with effects of persons peeping through it; or a blank wall might be painted as a representation of a view outside.

Trompe l'oeil can also be found painted on tables and other items of furniture, where it may look like cards in a game which is being played out, but in reality the eye is being tricked with an image.

Trompe l'oeil effects can also be found painted on the exterior walls of buildings.

Trompe l'oeil artists

• John F. Peto
• William Harnett
• Luca Giordano

See also

• mural
• still life