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Penrose stairs, artwork
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Penrose stairs, artwork
Penrose stairs. Computer artwork of Einstein characters climbing a set of Penrose stairs. This is an impossible figure created by the physicist Roger Penrose and used by M C Escher in his illustration Ascending and Descending. The staircase loops back to join itself whilst still appearing to have steps of the same size throughout, all going in one vertical direction. This is an example of an object that can be drawn but not created
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Media ID 6324859
© CLAUS LUNAU/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Albert Einstein Ambiguity Ambiguous Blocks Building Block Caricature Character Characters Climbing Illusion Illusory Impossible Figure Impossible Object Lego Mathematical Mathematics Maths Optical Illusion Perception Psychology Stair Case Stairs Step Steps Trick Trickery Vision Vision Visual Visual Trick
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mind-bending concept of Penrose stairs, brought to life through intricate computer artwork. The impossible figure, originally conceived by physicist Roger Penrose and famously utilized by M C Escher in his illustration Ascending and Descending, is a visual marvel that challenges our perception of reality. Against a clean white background, we see Einstein characters fearlessly ascending this perplexing staircase. Each step appears to be of equal size as they climb in one vertical direction, yet the staircase mysteriously loops back onto itself. This optical illusion creates an ambiguous and illusory effect that leaves viewers questioning its mathematical feasibility. The artistry behind this piece lies not only in its execution but also in the psychological impact it has on our minds. As we gaze at these caricature-like figures navigating the impossible steps with ease, we are reminded of the power of vision and how easily it can be deceived. Constructed from cut-out building blocks resembling Legos, this artwork exemplifies both creativity and mathematical precision. It serves as a testament to human ingenuity while simultaneously highlighting the limitations of what can be physically created versus what can be drawn or imagined. With its blend of mathematics, perception tricks, and artistic flair, this print captures the essence of an iconic masterpiece created by Science Photo Library's collaboration with renowned scientists and artists alike.
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