Mirage over Paris, 1869

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Mirage over Paris, 1869

Mirage over Paris, coloured historical engraving. This mirage was seen between 3am and 4am in December 1869. This type of mirage, where the virtual object is seen above the real one, occurs when a layer of warm air lies above a cold layer of air. The warm air has a higher refractive index, and this bends light back towards the ground. Engraving from The Atmosphere (1873) by Camille Flammarion

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6468643

© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

1869 1873 Atmospheric Bridges Camille Flammarion City December Engraving France French Meteorological Meteorology Mirage Morning Night Optical Illusion Optics Phenomenon River Seine The Atmosphere Urban Weather Winter Apparition False Coloured

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> Arts > Landscape paintings > Waterfall and river artworks > Nature-inspired paintings

> Arts > Landscape paintings > Waterfall and river artworks > River artworks

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Mirage over Paris, 1869" takes us back to a chilly December morning in the heart of 19th century France. The coloured historical engraving beautifully captures a rare atmospheric phenomenon that occurred between 3am and 4am on that fateful day. As we gaze upon the image, we witness an optical illusion where a mirage appears above the real objects in Paris. The enchanting mirage is brought about by the unique weather conditions present at that time. A layer of warm air hovers above a colder layer, causing light to bend towards the ground due to differences in refractive index. This creates an ethereal apparition suspended in mid-air, defying our perception of reality. The intricate artistry displayed in this engraving from Camille Flammarion's renowned book "The Atmosphere" (1873) adds depth and historical significance to this mesmerizing scene. The cityscape comes alive with its iconic river and bridges serving as witnesses to this meteorological spectacle. As we delve into this piece, it not only showcases nature's wonders but also serves as a reminder of humanity's fascination with understanding and capturing such extraordinary occurrences throughout history. It invites us to ponder how science and art intertwine seamlessly when exploring our world's mysteries. This print from Science Photo Library transports us back in time, allowing us to marvel at both the beauty of Parisian architecture and the awe-inspiring forces of nature that can transform even familiar landscapes into something

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