top of page

Architectural trompe I'oeil: Italian decorative painting and European interior design


This lecture explores painted, illusionistic architecture and its use in the enrichment of private and public interiors.

Often inspired by ancient Roman Originals, Renaissance Italians developed decorative schemes that influenced the courts of Europe and beyond. Panelling, fixtures and fittings all became integrated within architectural designs.

This introduction of movable oil paintings into these schemes shaped the subsequent evolution of picture hanging.

bottom of page