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Munker Illusion

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Munker Illusion

These are examples of the Munker illusion.

In the examples, the shapes are all the exact same color. They only appear different back on the contrasting background colors.

The Munker illusion is a visual illusion in which two identical gray squares appear to be different shades of gray when they are placed on a patterned background. The illusion was discovered by German psychologist Paul Munker in 1970.

If you are interested in learning more, scroll down to learn more about it.

Munker Illusion
Munker Illusion
Munker Illusion


Table of Contents

What is the Munker Illusion?

The Munker illusion is a visual illusion in which two identical gray squares appear to be different shades of gray when they are placed on a patterned background. The illusion was discovered by German psychologist Paul Munker in 1970.

The Munker illusion is created by the way that the visual system processes contrast information in the image. The patterned background surrounding the gray squares creates a gradient of contrast that changes the perceived brightness of the squares. The gray square on the lighter part of the pattern appears darker, while the gray square on the darker part of the pattern appears lighter.

The Munker illusion is particularly interesting because it challenges the idea that the perceived brightness of an object is solely determined by its physical luminance. Instead, the illusion demonstrates that the surrounding context can also influence the perception of brightness and contrast.

The Munker illusion is an example of a simultaneous contrast illusion, which occurs when the perception of an object is influenced by the characteristics of its surrounding context. Similar illusions include the famous checker shadow illusion and the White’s illusion. These illusions demonstrate the complex ways in which the brain processes visual information and highlights the importance of context in visual perception.

How does the Munker Illusion Work?

The Munker illusion is a visual illusion that occurs when two identical gray squares appear to be different shades of gray when they are placed on a patterned background. The illusion works by exploiting the way that the visual system processes contrast information in the image.

The patterned background surrounding the gray squares creates a gradient of contrast that changes the perceived brightness of the squares. Specifically, the squares on the lighter parts of the background appear darker, while the squares on the darker parts of the background appear lighter. This happens because the visual system is constantly trying to adjust for differences in lighting conditions in the environment, and it uses the surrounding context to help determine the true brightness of an object.

In the case of the Munker illusion, the visual system uses the surrounding pattern as a reference point to determine the brightness of the gray squares. The lighter parts of the pattern make the squares appear darker, while the darker parts of the pattern make the squares appear lighter, even though they are actually the same shade of gray.

The Munker illusion is a type of simultaneous contrast illusion, which occurs when the perception of an object is influenced by the characteristics of its surrounding context. Similar illusions include the checker shadow illusion and White’s illusion. These illusions demonstrate the complex ways in which the brain processes visual information and highlights the importance of context in visual perception.

Some Similar Illusions to the Munker Illusion

There are several other illusions that are similar to the Munker illusion and also rely on the concept of simultaneous contrast. Here are a few examples:

  1. Checker shadow illusion: This illusion was discovered by Edward Adelson in 1995 and is similar to the Munker illusion in that it involves a checkerboard pattern that influences the perceived brightness of two identical gray squares. In this illusion, a shadow is cast over one of the squares, making it appear darker than the other square, even though they are the same shade of gray.
  2. White’s illusion: This illusion, discovered by illusionist and psychologist James White in 1979, involves two identical gray circles placed on different colored backgrounds. The circles appear to be different shades of gray, with the one on the darker background appearing lighter and the one on the lighter background appearing darker.
  3. Cornsweet illusion: This illusion involves a gradient of shading that makes a rectangle appear to have a three-dimensional bulge in the center. The illusion works by exploiting the way that the visual system processes changes in contrast, making the gradient appear to be a curved surface.

These illusions, like the Munker illusion, demonstrate how the brain uses surrounding context to interpret visual information and can lead to surprising and counterintuitive results.

Discovery of the Munker Illusion

The Munker illusion was discovered by German psychologist Paul Munker in 1970. Munker was interested in studying the effects of contrast on visual perception and developed the illusion as a way to explore how patterns and backgrounds can affect the perceived brightness of objects.

His discovery of the Munker illusion was an important contribution to the field of visual perception and has been studied extensively in the years since its discovery.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion

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Are they climbing the stairs illusion

Are They Climbing the Stairs in this illusion? No, in fact, they aren’t moving at all. The stick figures aren’t moving or changing size at any point in the video.

The artists responsible for this design leveraged the principles of Illusory motion, specifically Beta Movement to create this awesome effect.

If you are interested in learning more about how this “Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion” works, scroll down to learn more.

Are they climbing the stairs illusion


Table of Contents

What is the Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion?

The Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion uses the principles of Illusory motion, specifically a concept known as Beta movement to create this effect.

Beta movement is a type of illusionary motion that occurs when two or more stationary images are presented in rapid succession, creating the perception of movement between them. The illusion was first described by German psychologist Max Wertheimer in 1912, as part of his research on the perception of motion.

Beta movement is sometimes referred to as apparent motion or phi phenomenon, and it is similar to other types of illusory motion, such as stroboscopic motion and the wagon-wheel effect. However, beta movement specifically refers to the perception of motion between two or more stationary images that are presented in succession, rather than the motion of a single object.

Beta movement can be created in a number of ways, including by using flashing lights or rapidly alternating images on a screen. The illusion works by exploiting the way that the brain processes visual information, as the brain interprets the rapid succession of images as a continuous movement, even if each individual image is static.

Beta movement has been studied extensively by psychologists and neuroscientists, as it provides insights into the complex ways in which the brain processes visual information and perceives motion. It has also been used in a variety of applications, including in the development of early animation techniques and in the design of visual displays for use in aviation and other high-stakes settings.

How does the Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion Work?

The Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion works using Beta movement which is an illusionary effect that creates the perception of motion between two or more stationary images that are presented in rapid succession. It works by exploiting the way that the brain processes visual information.

When two or more stationary images are presented in rapid succession, the brain interprets the sequence of images as a continuous movement, even though each individual image is static. This is because the brain is wired to look for patterns and connections in visual stimuli, and it uses a process known as temporal integration to create a sense of continuity between the different images.

Temporal integration occurs when the brain combines information from multiple sensory inputs over time to create a unified perceptual experience. In the case of beta movement, the brain integrates the information from each individual image into a single perceptual experience of motion.

The specific mechanisms behind beta movement are still not fully understood, but researchers have identified several key factors that contribute to the illusion. These include the duration of the individual images, the timing between them, and the visual characteristics of the images themselves, such as their brightness, contrast, and color.

Overall, beta movement is a fascinating phenomenon that sheds light on the complex ways in which the brain processes and interprets visual information. It has applications in a variety of fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and media technology.

Some Similar Illusions

If you liked the Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion, you should check out this collection of Motion Illusions including Beta Movement, the Amazing Moving Octopus Illusion, ,these Colorful Illusory Motion examples,  these cool Black and White Illusory Motion examples.

Discovery of Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion (Beta Movement)

The Are They Climbing the Stairs Illusion uses Beta movement which was first described by the German psychologist Max Wertheimer in 1912, as part of his research on the perception of motion. Wertheimer was interested in understanding how people perceive motion in still images, and he conducted a series of experiments using sequences of stationary images presented in rapid succession.

In one of his most famous experiments, Wertheimer presented two stationary images of dots on a screen, one after the other, with a brief interval of darkness between them. When the dots were arranged in a certain way, the sequence of images created the illusion of a single dot moving back and forth between the two locations.

Wertheimer called this phenomenon “phi movement” and noted that it was a type of illusory motion that occurred due to the way that the brain processes visual information over time. He later referred to this same effect as “beta movement,” and the term has been used ever since to describe the illusion of motion created by sequences of stationary images.

Wertheimer’s work on beta movement was groundbreaking and helped to lay the foundation for modern research on visual perception and sensory processing. His insights into the mechanisms behind the illusion of motion have been applied in a variety of fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and media technology.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

The Circles Aren’t Moving

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Circles Aren't Moving

The circles in these illusion aren’t moving at all and they stay the same size through out the video.

The artists responsible for these designs have used the principles of Illusory motion to create these effect.

If you are interested in learning more about how these “circles aren’t moving illusions” work, scroll down to learn more.

Circles Aren't Moving


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What is the The Circles Aren’t Moving?

The Circles Aren’t Moving illusion uses the principles of Illusory motion, also known as motion illusion, to create a cool effect. Illusory motion is a phenomenon in which static images or patterns appear to move or change position. These illusions can be created in a number of ways, such as through the use of contrasting colors or shapes that create the perception of movement, or through the use of repeated patterns that create a sense of motion.

One well-known example of an illusory motion is the famous “rotating snakes” illusion, in which a static image of a series of snakes appears to be rotating continuously. In reality, the image is static and the motion is an illusion created by the way the snakes are drawn.

Another example is the “wagon-wheel effect,” which occurs when a wheel appears to be moving slowly or even in the wrong direction when captured on film or video. This is due to the way that the camera captures individual frames and the speed at which the wheel is spinning relative to the frame rate of the camera.

Illusory motion can be a fascinating area of study for neuroscientists and psychologists, as it provides insights into the ways in which the brain processes visual information and perceives motion.

How does the The Circles Aren’t Moving Work?

The Circles Aren’t Moving uses illusory motion which works by exploiting the way that our brains process visual information. When we look at an image, our brains use a number of cues to interpret the visual scene, including color, contrast, shape, and motion.

When an image contains certain visual cues that are typically associated with motion, our brains may interpret the image as though it is in motion, even if it is actually static. This can occur due to a number of different mechanisms, including:

Contrast: When contrasting colors or shapes are placed next to each other, it can create the illusion of motion as our brains try to make sense of the differences between the two.

Repetition: Repeated patterns or shapes can create the perception of motion, as our brains interpret the repeated elements as a series of movements.

Peripheral vision: Objects that are located in our peripheral vision may appear to move or shift, even if they are not actually in motion, due to the way that our brains process information from this area.

Afterimages: When we stare at an image for a prolonged period of time, our brains may create an afterimage that appears to move or shift, even if the original image was static.

Overall, illusory motion is a fascinating area of study that sheds light on the complex ways in which our brains process and interpret visual information.

Some Similar Illusions

If you liked the The Circles Aren’t Moving Work illusion, you should check out this collection of Motion Illusions including Are They Climbing the Stairs, the Amazing Moving Octopus Illusion, ,these Colorful Illusory Motion examples,  these cool Black and White Illusory Motion examples.

Discovery of Illusory Motion

The phenomenon of illusory motion has been observed and studied for centuries, with some of the earliest recorded descriptions dating back to the 17th century. However, it is difficult to attribute the discovery of illusory motion to any one individual, as it has been studied and described by many researchers over the years.

One of the earliest known examples of an illusory motion was described by the Italian mathematician and astronomer Galileo Galilei in the early 17th century. Galileo observed that when two straight lines are placed next to each other, they can appear to be moving in a circular motion, due to the way that the brain processes the visual information.

Other notable researchers who have contributed to the study of illusory motion include Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who wrote extensively about optical illusions in his book “Theory of Colours” published in 1810, and Hermann von Helmholtz, a German physicist and physician who conducted experiments on visual perception in the 19th century.

Today, illusory motion continues to be studied and explored by neuroscientists, psychologists, and other researchers interested in the mechanisms behind visual perception and sensory processing.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Motion Binding Illusion

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Motion Bind Illusions

In this motion blinding illusion, at first, the two sets of lines appear to move independently of each other. However, as soon as the squares are added, all of the lines appear to be moving in a coordinated fashion.

This effect is due to the motion binding illusion where your brain lets the motion of object or set of objects impact how you perceive the motion of other objects.

If you are interested in reading more about motion binding illusions, scroll down to learn some more about it.

Motion Bind Illusions
Created by Michael Bach


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What is the Motion Binding Illusion?

The motion binding illusion is caused by the interaction of multiple moving objects, where the motion of one object influences how we perceive the motion of another object. This is known as the motion assimilation effect.

For example, if two rows of dots are moving in opposite directions, but at the same speed, the dots will appear to be stationary. However, if one row of dots is moving faster than the other, the dots in the slower row will appear to move in the opposite direction. This occurs because the motion of the faster row influences how the brain perceives the motion of the slower row.

How does the Motion Binding Illusion Work?

The motion binding illusion works by taking advantage of the way that the human visual system processes motion information. When we see objects moving, the brain uses several cues to determine the direction and speed of the motion. These cues include changes in luminance (brightness), color, texture, and position over time.

In the case of the motion binding illusion, the brain is presented with multiple moving objects that have different shapes, colors, or textures. When these objects are presented in rapid succession, the brain processes them as a single object that is moving in a particular direction and at a particular speed. This is because the brain automatically tries to “smooth out” the motion information it receives by averaging the motion signals from all the objects in the visual field.

As a result, when one object appears to move in a particular direction, the brain will tend to perceive the other objects as moving in the same direction, even if they are actually stationary or moving in a different direction. This is known as the motion assimilation effect, and it is what creates the illusion of motion binding.

There are several factors that can influence the strength of the motion binding illusion, including the speed and direction of the moving objects, the size and shape of the objects, and the surrounding environment. Overall, the motion binding illusion is a fascinating example of how the brain processes visual information to create our perception of motion and movement in the world around us.

Some Similar Illusions

There are several similar illusions to the motion binding illusion that take advantage of the way our brains process motion information. Here are a few examples:

  1. Motion aftereffect: This illusion occurs when you look at a moving object for an extended period of time and then look at a stationary object. The stationary object will appear to be moving in the opposite direction to the original moving object. This illusion is caused by the way the brain adapts to prolonged exposure to motion stimuli.
  2. Motion-induced blindness: This illusion occurs when a stationary object becomes invisible or disappears when surrounded by a moving pattern. This is thought to occur because the brain selectively filters out motion signals in order to focus on more important information.
  3. Apparent motion: This illusion occurs when two stationary objects are presented in rapid succession in slightly different locations, creating the perception of a single object moving back and forth between the two locations. This illusion is similar to the motion binding illusion, but it involves stationary objects instead of moving ones.
  4. Phi phenomenon: This illusion occurs when a series of stationary lights are presented in rapid succession in a particular sequence, creating the perception of a single light moving back and forth between the different locations. This illusion is similar to the apparent motion illusion but with light stimuli.

Overall, these illusions all involve the perception of motion in the absence of actual movement. They highlight the complex processes that the brain uses to interpret visual information and create our perception of the world around us.

Discovery of the Motion Binding Illusion

The concept of motion binding, also known as motion assimilation or motion pooling, has been studied by many scientists over the years. However, one of the earliest and most influential studies on this phenomenon was conducted by the German psychologist Max Wertheimer.

In the early 1900s, Wertheimer and his colleagues conducted a series of experiments on the perception of apparent motion. They found that when two stationary objects were presented in rapid succession with a brief interval between them, the objects appeared to move back and forth between their locations, creating the perception of motion.

Wertheimer’s work laid the foundation for the study of motion perception and paved the way for later research on motion binding and other related phenomena. Today, motion binding continues to be an active area of research in the fields of psychology, neuroscience, and computer vision, as scientists seek to better understand the mechanisms underlying visual motion processing in the human brain.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Optical Floor Illusions

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Optical Floor Illusion

Here are a few examples of cool optical floor illusions.

In these illusions, artists have used principles of forced perspective and a touch of anamorphic street art to create an amazing experience.

Optical Floor Illusion
Optical Floor Illusion
Optical Floor Illusion
Optical Floor Illusion


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What are Optical Floor Illusions?

In optical floor illusions, artists have used principles of forced perspective and a touch of anamorphic street art to create an amazing experience.

How do Optical Floor Illusions Work?

Optical floor illusions leverage forced perspective which is an optical illusion that makes objects appear larger, smaller, closer, or farther away than they really are. This is achieved by manipulating the perception of depth and distance by changing the relative size and distance of objects in a scene. The technique is often used in photography and filmmaking, as well as in stage design and architecture.

For example, a common use of forced perspective is to make a small object appear much larger in a photograph or movie. This is done by placing the small object close to the camera and the larger objects farther away. By adjusting the angles and distances between the objects, the illusion is created that the small object is actually much larger than it really is.

Another example is the use of forced perspective in theme park rides, such as Disney’s “Tower of Terror”. The ride uses a combination of props and lighting to make the elevator appear to drop much farther than it actually does, creating a thrilling illusion of a longer freefall.

Overall, forced perspective is a powerful tool for creating visual illusions and is used in a wide range of applications to create dramatic and eye-catching effects.

Optical floor illusions also use principles of Anamorphic street art, also known as 3D street art, which is a type of street art that creates the illusion of three-dimensional objects or scenes on a two-dimensional surface, such as a sidewalk or a wall. The art is created by using a technique called anamorphism, which involves distorting the image so that it appears normal when viewed from a certain angle.

The artist typically sketches the image in a distorted form, and then uses precise measurements and angles to create the illusion of depth and dimension. When viewed from a certain angle, the image appears to pop out of the surface and come to life.

Anamorphic street art has become increasingly popular in recent years, with artists creating intricate and realistic scenes that often incorporate elements of the surrounding environment. Some of the most famous examples of anamorphic street art include Julian Beever’s “Pavement Picasso” series, which features incredible chalk drawings that appear to jump off the sidewalk, and Edgar Mueller’s “Ice Age” installation, which depicts a mammoth breaking through the pavement.

Overall, anamorphic street art is a fascinating and visually striking art form that creates the illusion of depth and dimension in unexpected and surprising ways.

Some Similar Illusions

There are several similar illusions to optical floor illusions that create the perception of three-dimensional images or scenes on a two-dimensional surface. Here are a few examples:

  1. Trompe l’oeil: This is a French term that means “deceive the eye.” Trompe l’oeil is an art technique that creates realistic images that trick the viewer into thinking they are seeing three-dimensional objects or scenes on a flat surface. The technique is often used in murals, paintings, and other forms of visual art.
  2. Forced perspective: As I mentioned earlier, forced perspective is a technique that manipulates the viewer’s perception of depth and distance to create the illusion of three-dimensional objects or scenes. This is often used in photography, filmmaking, and stage design.
  3. Anamorphic art installations: In addition to anamorphic street art, there are also installations that use anamorphism to create the illusion of three-dimensional objects or scenes. For example, some artists create sculptures or installations that appear to be distorted from one angle, but reveal a hidden image when viewed from a specific viewpoint.

Overall, these illusions use similar techniques to create the perception of three-dimensional images on a two-dimensional surface, and can be just as impressive and visually striking as anamorphic street art and optical floor illusions.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Dual Axis Illusion

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Dual Axis Illusion

This dual-axis illusion was designed by Frank Force and was created in 2019

In this dual axis illusion, the shape that appears to spin horizontally or vertically depending on how you look at it.


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What is the Dual Axis Illusion?

In this dual axis illusion, the shape that appears to spin horizontally or vertically depending on how you look at it.

How does the Dual Axis Illusion Work?

The dual axis illusion is a type of paradox illusion.

A paradox illusion is a type of visual illusion that presents an image or scenario that appears to be logically impossible or contradictory. These illusions are created by manipulating various visual cues, such as perspective, shape, size, and color, in a way that contradicts our expectations of what we know to be true.

One example of a paradox illusion is the “Penrose Triangle,” which is a two-dimensional drawing that depicts a triangular object with three prongs that appear to connect to each other in a way that defies the laws of geometry. Another example is the “Escherian Stairwell,” which is a video that appears to show people walking up and down a staircase that defies gravity by looping back on itself in an impossible way.

Paradox illusions can be fascinating and entertaining to look at, as they challenge our understanding of reality and our ability to perceive it accurately. They are often used in art and design to create visually striking and thought-provoking images and designs. They have also been used in scientific research to study the mechanisms of visual perception and to gain insights into how the brain processes complex visual information.

Some Similar Illusions

Here are some illusions that are similar to the dual axis illusion.

  1. The Penrose Triangle: This is a two-dimensional drawing that depicts a triangular object with three prongs that appear to connect to each other in a way that defies the laws of geometry. It creates the illusion of a three-dimensional object that can’t actually exist in physical space.
  2. The Impossible Cube: This is a three-dimensional drawing that depicts a cube that appears to have impossible geometry. The sides of the cube seem to be both inside and outside at the same time, creating a paradoxical illusion.
  3. The Escherian Stairwell: This is a video that appears to show people walking up and down a staircase that defies gravity by looping back on itself in an impossible way. This creates the illusion of an endless staircase that never actually gets anywhere.
  4. The Hering Illusion: This is an optical illusion that creates the illusion of parallel lines that appear to be bent or curved. This is caused by the way that the lines are positioned against a background of converging lines.
  5. The Cafe Wall Illusion: This is an optical illusion that creates the illusion of a staggered pattern of black and white tiles that appear to be sloping in opposite directions. In reality, the tiles are perfectly straight and parallel.

These are just a few examples of the many different types of paradox illusions that exist. They are fascinating and entertaining to look at, and can challenge our understanding of reality and our ability to perceive it accurately.

Discovery of the Dual Axis Illusion

The dual-axis illusion was designed by Frank Force.

Frank Force is a software engineer and game developer who is known for creating a wide variety of games, tools, and visual illusions using code. He has a background in computer science and has worked as a professional software engineer for over a decade. Force is particularly known for his work in game development, and has created a number of popular games and game engines using a variety of programming languages and platforms.

In addition to his work in game development, Frank Force has also gained attention for his visual illusions, including the “Dual Axis Illusion” and the “Reverse Spoke Illusion,” which he created using code to generate animations that create optical illusions. His illusions have been widely shared on social media and have been featured in various media outlets.

Overall, Frank Force is a versatile and creative programmer and developer who has made significant contributions to the fields of game development, software engineering, and visual perception.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

16 Circles Coffer Illusion

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16 Circles Coffer Illusion

This is the 16 circles coffer illusion. Can you spot all 16 circles?

Coffers are the panels on recessed ceilings. When most people look at the design below, they see a pattered that looks like a series of coffered panels on a ceiling.

But look closer and you’ll see that this isn’t a bunch of squares or rectangles, it’s really 16 circles on a striped background. Don’t believe it, scroll down to the end to see the 16 circles revealed.

Also, scroll down to learn a bit more about how the 16 circles coffer illusion works.

16 Circles Coffer Illusion


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What are coffers and the 16 Circles Coffer Illusion?

16 Circles Coffer illusion is a visual pattern of circles that creates the illusion of a three-dimensional coffered ceiling. The pattern consists of 16 large circles arranged in a grid pattern on top of a striped surface.

Coffer designs are primary used in ceilings as a way of making a flat ceiling appear as though it is a three-dimensional. A coffered ceiling is a ceiling with recessed panels, often used in grand buildings like palaces and cathedrals.

The coffer illusion is an example of a trompe l’oeil, which is French for “trick of the eye.” Trompe l’oeil techniques are often used in art and architecture to create realistic illusions of depth and dimension, often with the aim of making something appear more grand or impressive. The coffer illusion is a particularly effective example of this technique, as it can create the impression of a grand, expensive ceiling in a space that may not have the actual dimensions or budget to accommodate one.

How does the 16 Circles Coffer Illusion Work?

The 16 Circles Coffer illusion works by taking advantage of the way our brains process visual information. When we look at the pattern of circles, our brains automatically try to interpret them as a three-dimensional pattern of recessed panels.

Our brains interpret this pattern as a series of recessed panels because of a number of visual cues, such as the relative size of the circles, the positioning of the smaller circles in the spaces between the larger ones, and the pattern of intersections between the circles. These cues create the impression of depth and dimension, even though the ceiling is actually flat.

The 16 Circles Coffer illusion is an example of a trompe l’oeil, which is French for “trick of the eye.” Trompe l’oeil techniques are often used in art and architecture to create realistic illusions of depth and dimension.

Some Similar Illusions

There are many other illusions that are similar to the 16 Circles Coffer illusion in that they create the impression of depth and dimension on a two-dimensional surface. Some examples include:

  1. Checker Shadow Illusion: This illusion was created by Edward H. Adelson in 1995. It features a checkerboard pattern with two squares of different shades of gray, but the squares appear to be the same color due to the way our brains process visual information.
  2. Ames Room Illusion: This illusion was first created by American ophthalmologist Adelbert Ames Jr. in 1946. It uses forced perspective to make objects in one corner of a room appear much larger than objects in the opposite corner, creating the illusion of a distorted room.
  3. Penrose Triangle: This is an impossible object, first created by the mathematician Roger Penrose in the 1950s. It is a two-dimensional image of a three-dimensional object that appears to be a triangle, but when viewed from certain angles, it is clear that the object cannot exist in three dimensions.
  4. Necker Cube: This illusion was discovered by Swiss crystallographer Louis Albert Necker in 1832. It is a line drawing of a cube that can be seen from two different perspectives, creating the impression that the cube is flipping back and forth between two orientations.

These and other illusions demonstrate the fascinating ways that our brains interpret and process visual information, often leading us to perceive things that are not actually there or to misinterpret what we see.

Discovery-Creation of the 16 Circles Coffer Illusion

The 16 circles illusion was created by Stanford University psychologist and vision scientist Anthony Norcia

Anthony Norcia is a neuroscientist and researcher who is known for his contributions to the field of visual neuroscience. He is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Stanford University and has conducted extensive research on the neural mechanisms that underlie visual perception, including color perception and visual motion processing.

Norcia has also developed innovative methods for studying the brain’s response to visual stimuli, such as the use of non-invasive brain imaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG). His research has led to a deeper understanding of how the brain processes visual information and how visual perception is affected by neurological disorders and brain injuries.

Norcia’s contributions to the field of visual neuroscience have earned him numerous awards and honors, including a John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellowship and a National Institutes of Health Research Career Development Award.

The original coffer illusion, also known as the ceiling illusion, was first discovered by the Italian architect, artist, and engineer Filippo Brunelleschi in the early 15th century. Brunelleschi was a pioneer of linear perspective, a technique used to create the illusion of depth and three-dimensional space in two-dimensional art. He created the coffer illusion as a way to demonstrate his understanding of perspective and to showcase his architectural designs. The illusion involves painting a series of coffered panels on a flat ceiling, with each panel appearing to recede into the distance as if it were part of a larger, three-dimensional structure. The coffer illusion was a groundbreaking achievement in the history of art and architecture, and it has influenced artists and architects for centuries since its discovery.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

See For Yourself – The 16 Circles

The original illusion

16 Circles Coffer Illusion

With one circle revealed….

16 Circles Coffer Illusion Reveal 1 Circle

With 4 circles revealed….

16 Circles Coffer Illusion Reveal 4 Circles

With all 16 circles revealed…

16 Circles Coffer Illusion Reveal 16 Circles

Black Blob Illusion

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Black Blob Illusion

This is the Black Blob illusion created by Akiyoshi Kitaoka.

It is a visual illusion that features a circular black shape on top of a black and white checkerboard pattern. When viewed, the black blog appears to “bleed” into the surrounding space, creating the illusion of a black blob that is growing.

Stare at the back blob in the center of the image and slowly watch it expand and consume more and more of the surrounding design.

After checking out the illusion, scroll down to learn a bit more about how it works.

Black Blob Illusion
Created by Akiyoshi Kitaoka


Table of Contents

What is the Black Blob Illusion?

The “Black Blob” illusion is a visual illusion that features a circular black shape on top of a black and white checkerboard pattern.

When viewed, the blob appears to “bleed” into the surrounding checkerboard area, creating the illusion of a growing blob.

This illusion is an example of how our brain processes visual information and can be influenced by context and surrounding stimuli.

How does the Black Blob Illusion Work?

The “Black Blob” illusion works because of a phenomenon called lateral inhibition, which is a process by which neurons in the retina and visual system inhibit the activity of their neighboring neurons. This process allows our eyes and brain to detect edges and boundaries between different regions of light and dark.

In the case of the Black Blob illusion, the black and white checkerboard pattern in the center of the image creates a high contrast boundary that triggers lateral inhibition. This means that the neurons responsible for detecting the black and white areas of the checkerboard pattern inhibit the activity of their neighboring neurons in the white background.

As a result, the white background appears to be darker than it actually is, which creates the illusion of a black blob around the edges of the checkerboard pattern. This effect is enhanced by the fact that the black and white pattern is circular, which reinforces the perception of a circular boundary between light and dark.

Overall, the illusion is a fascinating example of how our brain processes visual information and how our perception can be influenced by surrounding stimuli.

Some Similar Illusions

There are many similar illusions to the “Black Blob” illusion that demonstrate how our perception can be influenced by context and surrounding stimuli. Here are a few examples:

  1. Mach bands: Mach bands are a phenomenon where our eyes exaggerate the contrast between adjacent areas of light and dark. This creates the illusion of stripes or bands of light and dark around the edges of objects.
  2. White’s illusion: White’s illusion is a geometric illusion where two identical gray squares are surrounded by different shades of gray. This creates the illusion that the two squares are different shades of gray, when in fact they are the same.
  3. Kanizsa triangle: The Kanizsa triangle is an illusion where three Pac-Man-like shapes arranged in a triangle create the perception of a white triangle in the center. However, there is no actual triangle there; it is an illusion created by the surrounding shapes.
  4. Hering illusion: The Hering illusion is a visual illusion where straight lines appear curved when they are placed on a background of parallel lines.
  5. Ebbinghaus illusion: The Ebbinghaus illusion is a size illusion where a circle appears larger or smaller depending on the size of the surrounding circles.

These illusions, like the “Black Blob” illusion, demonstrate how our perception can be influenced by context, surrounding stimuli, and the way our brain processes visual information.

Discovery of the Black Blob Illusion

This illusion was created by Akiyoshi Kitaoka.

Akiyoshi Kitaoka is a Japanese psychologist and professor of psychology at Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan.

He is known for his research on visual perception, particularly his work on optical illusions and visual art. Kitaoka has created a number of famous optical illusions, including the “Black Blob” illusion and the “Rotating Snakes” illusion.

He has also published numerous scientific papers on visual perception and optical illusions, and his work has been featured in various scientific and popular media outlets.

Kitaoka’s contributions to the field of visual perception have helped to deepen our understanding of how the brain processes visual information and how our perception can be influenced by context and surrounding stimuli.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Do You See Yellow?

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Do you see yellow illusion

Do you see a yellow circle in the image below? Most people see 3 circles – one blue, one red, and one yellow.

The only problem is that there is no yellow in the image below. Don’t believe it? Scroll down to the end of this article to see for yourself.

This cool design by Akiyoshi Kitaoka uses a well know optical phenomena known as the Bezold effect to create the illusion. If you want to read more about the Bezold effect, scroll down to learn more.

Artist Akiyoshi Kitaoka


Table of Contents

What is the Bezold Effect – Do You See Yellow?

The Do You See Yellow Illusion is caused by the the Bezold effect. It’s also known as the von Bezold spreading effect, is a phenomenon in visual perception where a change in color intensity or hue can affect the perception of neighboring colors. Specifically, the Bezold effect describes the way in which a color may appear differently depending on its context or surroundings.

The effect was named after Wilhelm von Bezold, a German scientist who first described it in the late 19th century. He observed that changing the intensity or saturation of a color could cause adjacent colors to appear brighter or duller, and that changing the hue of a color could cause surrounding colors to take on a different tint.

For example, the Bezold effect can be seen in a gradient of blue-green colors. If the intensity of the blue-green color at one end of the gradient is decreased, the adjacent colors may appear more green, while if the intensity is increased, the adjacent colors may appear more blue. Similarly, if the hue of the blue-green color is changed towards blue, the surrounding colors may appear more green, and if it is changed towards green, the surrounding colors may appear more blue.

The Bezold effect has practical applications in fields such as graphic design and color theory, where an understanding of how colors interact can help create effective color schemes.

How does the Bezold Effect Work – Do You See Yellow?

The Bezold effect is believed to be caused by the way that color information is processed by the visual system. When we perceive a color, our brain takes into account not only the properties of the color itself but also the context in which it appears.

One theory is that the Bezold effect is related to the way that colors are perceived in the retina. The retina contains cells called cones that are sensitive to different wavelengths of light, which correspond to different colors. These cones send signals to the brain that are interpreted as color.

However, the processing of color information in the retina is complex, and neighboring cones can interact with each other in a phenomenon known as lateral inhibition. This means that when one cone is activated, it can suppress the activity of adjacent cones, which can affect the perception of color in the surrounding area.

Another theory is that the Bezold effect is related to the way that color information is processed in higher visual areas of the brain. These areas receive input from the retina and combine information from multiple cones to create a perception of color. However, this processing is influenced by factors such as attention, expectation, and memory, which can affect the perception of color in the context of a particular scene.

Overall, the precise mechanisms underlying the Bezold effect are not fully understood, but it is clear that the effect is a result of the complex processing of color information in the visual system.

Some Similar Illusions – Do You See Yellow?

There are several illusions that are similar to the Do You See Yellow Illusion in that they involve changes in the perception of color based on the context in which it appears. Here are some examples:

White’s illusion: This illusion involves two gray squares of the same luminance, but with different surrounding patterns. The square surrounded by black appears lighter than the square surrounded by white.

Simultaneous contrast illusion: This illusion involves two adjacent patches of color that are the same color but appear different due to their surrounding colors. For example, a gray square can appear darker or lighter depending on whether it is surrounded by black or white.

Color assimilation illusion: This illusion involves a target color that appears to blend with the color of its surrounding context. For example, a yellow square can appear to take on a greenish tint if it is surrounded by green.

Chromatic adaptation illusion: This illusion involves a change in the perception of color due to prolonged exposure to a particular color. For example, if you stare at a red object for a period of time and then look at a white surface, the white surface may appear to have a greenish tint.

These illusions all demonstrate the way in which the perception of color is influenced by the context in which it appears, and they highlight the complex processing of color information in the visual system.

Discovery of the Bezold Effect

The Bezold effect was named after Wilhelm von Bezold, a German physicist and meteorologist who first described the phenomenon in the late 19th century. Von Bezold is also known for his work on color theory, particularly his research on the color harmony of complementary colors. He published several influential books on color theory, including “The Theory of Color in its Relation to Art and Art-Industry” (1874), which became a standard reference for artists and designers. Von Bezold’s contributions to the field of color theory have had a lasting impact on our understanding of the perception of color and the use of color in art and design.

Do You See Yellow Illusion – Zooming In

The following images show what happens when you zoom in on the Do You See Yellow Illusion.

Do you see yellow illusion
Full Image
Do you see yellow illusion?
Zooming In on the “Yellow”
Do you see yellow illusion?
Fully Zoomed in on the “Yellow”


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Belt of Venus Illusion

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the belt of venus

The Belt of Venus Illusion is a natural phenomenon that creates a beautiful pinkish glow in the sky just after sunset or just before sunrise. It is also known as the “anti-twilight arch” or the “Earth’s shadow,” and it is named after the Greek goddess of love, Venus.

Check out these cool Belt of Venus Illusions and then scroll down to learn more about how the Belt of Venus Illusion work.

the belt of venus
the belt of venus
the belt of venus
the belt of venus


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What is the Belt of Venus Illusion?

The Belt of Venus illusion is a natural phenomenon that creates a beautiful pinkish glow in the sky just after sunset or just before sunrise. It is also known as the “anti-twilight arch” or the “Earth’s shadow,” and it is named after the Greek goddess of love, Venus.

The Belt of Venus appears as a band of pink or reddish-purple light that stretches across the horizon opposite the setting or rising sun. It is caused by the scattering of sunlight by the Earth’s atmosphere, which causes the reddish hues to be refracted and appear in the sky. The phenomenon occurs when the sun is just below the horizon and its rays illuminate the upper atmosphere, creating a gradient of colors from blue to pink and reddish-purple.

The Belt of Venus is a popular subject for photographers and sky-watchers, and it is particularly beautiful when viewed from high-altitude locations such as mountains or airplanes. The phenomenon is most visible during the spring and autumn equinoxes when the angle of the sun is just right for the pinkish glow to appear in the sky.

How does the Belt of Venus Illusion Work?


The Belt of Venus illusion is a phenomenon that is caused by the scattering of sunlight by the Earth’s atmosphere during the time of day when the sun is just below the horizon. As the sun sets or rises, its rays illuminate the upper atmosphere and create a gradient of colors from blue to pink and reddish-purple.

The blue light is scattered more than the other colors by the Earth’s atmosphere, which is why the sky appears blue during the daytime. As the sun sets or rises, its rays have to pass through more of the Earth’s atmosphere to reach the observer’s eye, and the blue light is scattered in all directions, leaving behind the warmer colors.

The reddish hues that appear in the Belt of Venus are caused by a phenomenon known as “backscattering.” This occurs when the reddish light that is scattered by the atmosphere is reflected back towards the observer by particles in the air, such as dust or pollution. The backscattering effect creates a pink or reddish-purple glow that is visible in the sky opposite the setting or rising sun.

Overall, the Belt of Venus is a beautiful natural phenomenon that is caused by the scattering of sunlight by the Earth’s atmosphere, and it is particularly visible during the spring and autumn equinoxes when the angle of the sun is just right for the pinkish glow to appear in the sky.

Some Similar Illusions

There are several similar natural phenomena that are related to the Belt of Venus illusion:

  1. The Earth’s shadow: This is a dark blue or grayish-blue band that is visible opposite the setting or rising sun, just above the Belt of Venus. It is caused by the Earth’s curvature, which casts a shadow on the atmosphere.
  2. Alpenglow: This is a pinkish or reddish glow that appears on mountains just before sunrise or just after sunset. It is caused by the same atmospheric scattering that creates the Belt of Venus, but it is more concentrated and visible on the mountain peaks.
  3. Crepuscular rays: These are shafts of sunlight that appear to radiate from the sun when it is just below the horizon. They are caused by the scattering of light by the Earth’s atmosphere and are often visible in conjunction with the Belt of Venus.
  4. Zodiacal light: This is a faint, triangular-shaped glow that is visible in the night sky just after sunset or just before sunrise. It is caused by the reflection of sunlight off dust particles in the plane of the solar system.

All of these phenomena are caused by the scattering of sunlight by the Earth’s atmosphere, and they create beautiful and awe-inspiring displays of light and color in the sky.

Discovery of the Belt of Venus Illusion

The Belt of Venus is a natural phenomenon that has been observed and appreciated by people for centuries, so it is difficult to attribute its discovery to a specific individual.

However, the term “Belt of Venus” is often credited to the American astronomer and photographer W.W. Campbell, who wrote about the phenomenon in his book “The Nature of Eclipses” in 1906.

Campbell was fascinated by the beautiful pinkish glow that appeared in the sky opposite the setting or rising sun and gave it the name “Belt of Venus” because of its resemblance to the goddess of love’s girdle. Since then, the term has become widely used by photographers, sky-watchers, and astronomers to describe this natural phenomenon.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.