Amazing illusion painting in 4K, The Ambassadors (1533), by Hans Holbein the Younger

Music available on Bandcamp by clicking/tapping on this link: “The Ambassadors” is a painting from 1533 made by Hans #Holbein the Younger that features an anamorphic skull illusion. In this brief video we see how the illusion works when walking from face-on of the painting to the ideal spot for viewing the effect. With the unaided eye it is only properly visible from one angle. As far as I know, this video is the world’s first ever to correctly document the transition of the perspective effect using the original painting itself from fully face-on to its ideal angle. Skulls depicted in paintings of the time were added as a ‘memento mori’ meaning a reminder to not forget that we all will perish one day. The two men who figure in the painting are, on the left, Jean de Dinteville, French ambassador to the court of King Henry VIII at the time of the painting, and on the right, Georges de Selve, Bishop of Lavaur. “The Ambassadors“ painting is on display at the National Museum in London. There is no charge for entry into the National Museum so anyone in London can go visit and see this incredible painting. The National Museum does encourage visitors to make donations with convenient drop boxes located near their entrances. When I visit for an hour or two I typically donate £5 but there is no set amount. As of 2016 the museum recommends a £10 donation. More information about this painting and the figures surrounding it can be found here: “The Ambassadors“ Wikipedia article: Hans Holbein the Younger Wikipedia article: Jean de Dinteville and Georges de Selve Wikipedia articles: More information about this type of #illusion can be found here: Anamorphosis Wikipedia article: The National Gallery’s official site: The National Gallery’s info on this painting: More #WorldScott videos here: