For centuries, artists have been experimenting with how to trick our eyes.

In the 19th century, the term ‘trompe l’oeil’ was coined to refer to the technique of creating illusions in paintings, but many artists play the game of simulation. 

The most famous written example comes from Pliny the Elder, with his charming description of a competition between two well-known Greek painters Zeuxis and Parrhasius. Each attempted to fool the other with the brilliant realism of their works—an anecdote which has inspired artists, from Flemish masters of illusion such as Hans Memling and Jan van Eyck to Dutch still life specialists.

Trace the history of trompe l’oeil techniques at this special Members’ event. We will explore specific illusionistic techniques, and we look at many extraordinary and entertaining examples from our own collection and further afield.

Siân Walters leads this fun evening talk. We hope you will leave with a new appreciation for artistic tricks!