A magnificent pair of polychrome painted Trompe-l’œil library doors, richly adorned with vibrant colors and meticulously executed with exquisite detail, depict carefully rendered illustrations of books, delicate porcelains, and small framed paintings. These artfully arranged elements suggest layered shelving and convincing spatial depth.
Trompe-l’œil (French for “deceive the eye”) is an art technique that creates highly realistic optical illusions, prompting viewers to perceive three-dimensional objects or spaces on a flat surface through meticulous detailing, nuanced shadows and highlights, and skillful use of forced perspective. Employed throughout history—from ancient Greek panel painting and Renaissance frescoes to Baroque interiors and contemporary street art—this approach transforms flat planes so that they appear to recede, objects seem tangible enough to touch, and entire scenes read as strikingly lifelike.
These doors are suitable for both hanging as artwork or as functional doors. Door fittings in handle holes are likely replaced.
Size: 79” H x 30” W x 2” D (each)
Signed “Johnathon, ‘88”
C. 1888, England
A magnificent pair of polychrome painted Trompe-l’œil library doors, richly adorned with vibrant colors and meticulously executed with exquisite detail, depict carefully rendered illustrations of books, delicate porcelains, and small framed paintings. These artfully arranged elements suggest layered shelving and convincing spatial depth.
Trompe-l’œil (French for “deceive the eye”) is an art technique that creates highly realistic optical illusions, prompting viewers to perceive three-dimensional objects or spaces on a flat surface through meticulous detailing, nuanced shadows and highlights, and skillful use of forced perspective. Employed throughout history—from ancient Greek panel painting and Renaissance frescoes to Baroque interiors and contemporary street art—this approach transforms flat planes so that they appear to recede, objects seem tangible enough to touch, and entire scenes read as strikingly lifelike.
These doors are suitable for both hanging as artwork or as functional doors. Door fittings in handle holes are likely replaced.
Size: 79” H x 30” W x 2” D (each)
Signed “Johnathon, ‘88”
C. 1888, England
