El-Agroudi explained that Trompe-l'œil is an ancient art known to many civilizations.

For instance, the ancient Egyptians used it in tombs, where they painted doors and passageways on walls to create an illusion, indicating the presence of the king's burial chamber while the actual tomb was elsewhere, she said.

"We see examples of this in the tombs of nobles in Saqqara, the Valley of the Kings, and the cemeteries of Mir in Assiut, where murals were painted, laying the foundation for this art form,” she added.

Moreover, Trompe-l'œil gained prominence in France during the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries, and its use began in palaces. It was also used in ancient Greece and Rome.

El-Agroudi has contributed her expertise and artistic work to significant projects in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, including the Egyptian Opera House and the Conference Centre, among other national projects.

 

 

The illusion of a real
 

El-Agroudi further explained that Trompe-l'œil has two main aspects.

The first is functional, serving as a solution for spaces, especially by adding the illusion of depth and space to small areas.

It can also be used to hide structural flaws, improve the appearance of windows, and completely transform the look of doors, especially interior ones, enhancing the overall atmosphere of a space.

Trompe-l'œil is not limited to interior spaces. It can also be used outdoors in gardens and open spaces, creating the illusion of an extended garden or terrace with paintings on walls or columns in the outdoor areas of buildings.

The second aspect of Trompe-l'œil is decorative, as it adds aesthetic touches to spaces, such as painted bookshelves and tapestries hanging on walls.

 

The dome deceptively gives light to the place.

 

The artwork sometimes serves both a decorative and practical function, particularly in small spaces.

For example, a small corner that cannot accommodate furniture could be painted with an image of a console and artwork hanging above it, creating the illusion of a fully furnished space.

Trompe-l'œil can also be used for painting ornamental designs, resembling wallpaper or adding distinctive architectural touches to doorways and various rooms in the home.

One of the most famous uses of Trompe-l'œil is in painting ceilings, especially creating the illusion of domes in entrance halls.

This art form also enhances lighting illusions, such as painting ceilings to appear as if light is filtering through glass, giving the room an artistically deceptive sense of brightness.

Even floors can be painted in Trompe-l'œil style, giving the impression of an extended space beyond its dimensions.

 

Drawing characters gives the place a feeling of movement

 

El-Agroudi emphasized that Trompe-l'œil complements various architectural styles, whether modern, contemporary, or classical.

Each style has its unique visual language, and Trompe-l'œil can blend with or enhance it. For instance, a contemporary home could incorporate neo-classical Trompe-l'œil designs.

Modern homes increasingly use Trompe-l'œil as a decorative element, especially in large spaces, with wall or ceiling murals adding richness and beauty.

It also offers many practical advantages, such as eliminating the need for expensive artwork or extra furniture.

It can even give the impression of movement in a room, with figures painted on walls creating a festive atmosphere, contributing to a sense of spaciousness, particularly in small areas.

 

Compatibility between ceiling and wall drawings adds expansiveness

 

Trompe-l'œil can either draw inspiration from the existing decor or be the starting point for designing a space.

The art is not confined to interiors but can also be applied to house exteriors and facades.

According to El-Agroudi, it is a versatile art form that can enhance every element and detail of a home.