Is a French term that literally means to "trick the eye." It is a style of painting that gives the appearance of photo realism or illusionistic realism.
It began in the Renaissance period and flourished throughout Europe and North America in the 15th century onwards.
There is no doubt why the Renaissance period became so interested in this technique of painting, due to the discovery of linear perspective, the rise of Wunderkammers and the advancements in the science of optics.
In 17th century Netherlands, artists were well known in this style. It was both playful and intellectual, and considered a test of artistic skill of the period - and conceptually speaks about the very nature about art and perception.
