This spellbinding look at the history and development of illusionistic art reveals wide-ranging techniques that have piqued the publics fascination with this medium. Beautifully reproduced, the images featured in the book includes centuries-old work such as the scenery at the Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza, Italy, and the ceiling frescos at the Wurzburg Residence in Germany, that showcase processes such as trompe loeil and anamorphosis. It also features work from the 20th and 21st centuries, including Rene Magrittes classic surrealist works; M. C. Eschers magical and mathematically precise drawings; the seemingly undulating paintings of Bridget Riley; the manipulated photography of Andreas Gursky; Duane Hansons eerily lifelike sculptures; JRs larger-than-life portrait photographs; and George Rousses mind- bending constructions. The book also has examples of amazing street art including subway graffiti and a sidewalk painting that makes pedestrians think twice. This extraordinary and informative guide to all kinds of artistic trickery will satisfy scholars as well as everyday fans.