concept

A female figure at an easel is helped by another with a compass; representing perspective and geometry in art. Coloured stipple engraving, 1786.

(Above) Zeuxis painting the portrait of Juno from the features of five different women; (below) Parrhasius deceives onlookers with a painting of a veil over a painting, and birds with a painting of grapes. Etching by J.J. von Sandrart after J. von Sandrart.

Four doves drinking from a bowl of water. Engraving by G.G. Frezza, 1741, after G. Forier.

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Please note, due to essential maintenance work to our systems, you will be unable to request items in our collections; apply for, renew or pre-register for a library membership; or use our computers, laptops and printers from 06:00 on Saturday 12 July until 06:00 on Sunday 13 July. Our library will remain open as usual. Thank you for your understanding.

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Trompe l'oeil painting

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A female figure at an easel is helped by another with a compass; representing perspective and geometry in art. Coloured stipple engraving, 1786.

(Above) Zeuxis painting the portrait of Juno from the features of five different women; (below) Parrhasius deceives onlookers with a painting of a veil over a painting, and birds with a painting of grapes. Etching by J.J. von Sandrart after J. von Sandrart.

Four doves drinking from a bowl of water. Engraving by G.G. Frezza, 1741, after G. Forier.