What is trompe l oeil

A.� Trompe l'oeil translates from the French as 'tricking the eye'. Basically it is the art of decorating interiors with murals of landscapes and views, animals or even household items that look three-dimensional even though they are painted on a flat surface.

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A.� Trompe l'oeil is believed to date back to the Ancient Greeks. It is said that an early practitioner of the art, Zeuxis, painted a bunch of grapes that were so convincing birds tried to eat them. It became highly fashionable in 18th century Europe, particularly in France (thus it's name) and has enjoyed periods of favour ever since.

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A.� You can paint whatever takes your fancy, but there are certain classical themes. Climbing plants like vines or roses are often painted around borders and fireplaces, dark windowless corridors are transformed with sunny views of cornfields seen from beyond a garden where it is perpetually summer. City conservatories often look out onto classic Capability Brown-style English parkland rather than next door's garden wall, great Roman style terracotta urns and peacocks are often to be found in the bathroom, and so on.

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A.� There are a growing number of mural artists who specialise in offering trompe l'oeil in people's homes, with charges ranging from 500-3,000 pounds depending on the experience of the artist and the size and complexity of the design.

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