Abstract
A curve is called self-anamorphic if it is the same shape as its reflection in a curved
mirror except for rotation and rescaling. We show here that self-anamorphic curves exist
for images seen in conical mirrors viewed from above. This is perhaps surprising because
reflections seen in cones are typically so deformed that they have been used in the past to
reveal images concealed in anamorphic art. Fourier analysis is used to find a general
solution for self-anamorphic curves and four examples are illustrated. One of them is the
familiar heart shape. Its unexpected appearance where it seems not to belong is
reminiscent of the unexpected appearance of lifelike forms in the style of design known
to art historians as the Grotesque.
mirror except for rotation and rescaling. We show here that self-anamorphic curves exist
for images seen in conical mirrors viewed from above. This is perhaps surprising because
reflections seen in cones are typically so deformed that they have been used in the past to
reveal images concealed in anamorphic art. Fourier analysis is used to find a general
solution for self-anamorphic curves and four examples are illustrated. One of them is the
familiar heart shape. Its unexpected appearance where it seems not to belong is
reminiscent of the unexpected appearance of lifelike forms in the style of design known
to art historians as the Grotesque.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Journal of Mathematics and the Arts |
| Publication status | Published - 10 Jun 2008 |