Trumpe L'oeil---"to fool the eye"

 

One of the interesting characteristics in The Alabama Capitol Building is the surfaces in the former Alabama Supreme Court Chamber.

The walls and ceiling appear to have segments surrounded by wood molding. 

 

But it's an optical illusion called Trumpe L'oeil. (French for "fool the eye").

The "wood" is paint, originally used to create the effect in 1860, and refreshed when the building was restored in the 1980's.

The technique is also used elsewhere in the building. Take a tour and see it for yourself!