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Reversible Head with Basket of Fruit — A fruit basket doubles as a portrait when inverted.
Look closely. Let the image settle.
Illusions in painting / c. 1590

Reversible Head with Basket of Fruit

A fruit basket doubles as a portrait when inverted.

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Press Rotate 180° to switch between basket and portrait.

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History, evidence & image credit

THE IMAGE IN THIS ARCHIVE

Giuseppe Arcimboldo

Original file & attribution · Public domain

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Frequently asked questions

What is Reversible Head with Basket of Fruit?

A fruit basket doubles as a portrait when inverted.

What should I look for in Reversible Head with Basket of Fruit?

Press Rotate 180° to switch between basket and portrait.

What explains Reversible Head with Basket of Fruit?

Rotation changes the arrangement relative to the familiar upright template of a face. Fruit contours become facial features.

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Reversible Head with Basket of Fruit — A fruit basket doubles as a portrait when inverted.

Reversible Head with Basket of Fruit