Anamorphosis Painting of Perspective View of a Ship Model

An anamorphosis painting of a perspective stern view of a ship model, unattributed, c.1744-1774. Oil on panel; 43.5 x 52.5 cm; in gilded frame: 53.5 x 62 x 4.3 cm. Formerly attributed to 'Van de Velde'. Panel is made from three pieces of wood, the paint overlaid. Painted viewing circle encloses an image of a woman's head. With cylindrical mirror (see 1948-326/2) and anamorphic prints (see 1948-326/3-22).

This painting is a clever optical illusion where, when viewed in the reflection of a cylindrical mirror (1948-326/2), the distorted image reveals the model of an eighteenth-century British warship, seen from the stern. For the illusion to work, the mirror must be placed in the centre, on top of an allegorical bust of a crowned female figure, possibly representing Victory.

In the mid-eighteenth century, anamorphic paintings which functioned with mirrors were fashionable, and were displayed in cabinets and stately homes. They revealed hidden masterpieces to delight their viewers, presented the virtuoso skill of the painter and were used in optical games to demonstrate the powers of perspective.