Seeking out Mirrors

I’m not sure why I’m so drawn to paintings with mirrors in them, but I seem to seek them out. Specifically, mirrors on walls — not mirrors as a symbol of vanity.

When I see a mirror in the background, I feel as if the artist has offered me a different perspective, allowing me to peer into a small, secret world as if through a key hole.  My favorite example is William Holman Hunt’s Il Dolce Far Niente:

il dolce far niente  I’m like a child with this painting.  Transfixed upon that mirror, convinced that I might see some small detail that no one else has noticed (although I know that it can’t possibly be true).

 

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