Optical illusions have long fascinated us because they draw our attention and pose intriguing questions that are occasionally left unanswered.
These arresting images not only grab our attention, but they also lead us on a deeply reflective journey that highlights the subtle differences in our perception.
Our exclusive collection of optical illusions will make you doubt who you think you are. They might share some enlightening details about your background and personality.
What catches your eye first?
This image is potent because it conveys your perspective of both the outside world and who you are. If you are the first person to notice a duck, you are probably a gregarious person who enjoys socializing. You are able to think fast, act fast, and perform effectively under duress.
If you are someone who believes that if you detect a rabbit at first, you should go for it slowly. This suggests that you would like carefully weigh your options before settling on a thought and are reluctant to commit to one.
When you want anything done right, you follow the right procedure. In addition, you are generally a more introverted person than other people. I guess I might characterize myself as an introvert. You place greater value on having a select few close friends than you do on having a vast social network.
Which is it? The Profiled Faces or the Vase?
This optical illusion was created by Danish psychologist and philosopher Edgar John Rubin to aid individuals in understanding their benefits and drawbacks. Having two faces increases your ability to notice even the smallest details and provides you with a natural understanding of a wide range of vocations.
If your attention was initially drawn to the vase, you are the type of person who tends to overlook the little things and is naturally drawn to the bigger picture.
An older man or a young woman?
One of two images may immediately register in your mind. You are a thorough examiner if you see the old man with the big nose peering down. You may find it difficult to apply your critical thinking skill because you have a tendency to overanalyze. This is primarily due to your exceptional emotional awareness and understanding.
The moment you spot the woman turning away, you get impetuous and want to get things done swiftly. You have a unique zest for life since your optimism complements your fearless demeanor.
Which woman—older or younger—do you believe she is?
Your perception of this image may change depending on your age. If you see the girl turning away, you are most likely still young. However, it appears from the older woman’s appearance that you have a great deal of life experience. A study that looked into this phenomenon was published in the academic journal Scholarly Reports.
What Are Witches’ Stairs? A Simple Explanation of This Strange Home Design
Witches’ stairs are a strange but interesting design feature that became popular on TikTok a couple of years ago. Even though they have an unusual history, their name doesn’t really have to do with superstition. Instead, these stairs are a clever design choice. When made and installed correctly, they can be both useful and nice to look at!
Witches’ Stairs aren’t what they Appear.
While the stories about witches’ stairs might sound more interesting, they actually have a very practical purpose. They are really useful in homes with little space, like attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Witches’ stairs are designed to save space while still allowing you to go from one floor to another. Architects often call them “alternate tread stairs.”
How Witches’ Stairs Function
Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok
Witches’ stairs are designed to save space in two ways. First, each step is only half as wide as regular steps, and the steps are staggered. This makes the staircase narrower than a traditional one. These smaller stairs can also be used for extra storage, like for books or displaying items. According to Scott Schuttner, who wrote “Basic Stairbuilding,” the distance between the steps on one side of an alternating-tread stair is twice the height of the rise, which gives you more space on the steps and makes them safer.
Besides being practical, witches’ stairs meet building codes and safety standards in the U.S. A standard staircase is usually 3 feet wide, while a residential witches’ staircase is typically between 27 and 30 inches wide.
Real Origins
Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok
In 1985, a businessman named J.M. Lapeyre created a metal version of witches’ stairs. He thought these stairs could be a safe alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings, especially in tight spaces where ladders might not be safe. This design is also used on commercial ships and oil rigs, and it can be called ship stairs or ship ladders, in addition to witches’ stairs and alternate tread stairs.
Misconception
Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok
When videos of witches’ stairs first appeared on TikTok in 2021, they were linked to an urban legend. According to this legend, these staircases were built in 17th-century Massachusetts to keep witches away during the Salem witch trials because “witches can’t climb up them.” This idea has been proven false, but another rumor suggests that Thomas Jefferson came up with the design. Because of this, witches’ stairs are sometimes called Jeffersonian or Jefferson stairs. However, an original version of the design was also mentioned in a book called “Monckton’s One Plane Method Of Hand Railing and Stair Building,” published in 1888.
Debunking the Myth
Photo Credit: conspiracy___time | TikTok
The exact origins of witches’ stairs are a bit unclear, but one thing is clear: there’s no historical evidence that they were designed to keep witches away. Historian Robin Briggs has studied many historical sources and found no mention of stairs that could disable witches. Interestingly, some people with these unique staircases also buried “witch bottles” or included dead cats in their homes for protection against witchcraft, but Briggs calls this idea “pure disinformation.” He notes that the closest belief was that putting a broom over the door would trap a witch inside.
While it’s fun to think about myths and legends, it’s also interesting to know the real history of witches’ stairs. Regardless, they offer a unique and decorative alternative to regular staircases, adding a fun and quirky touch to home design.
Leave a Reply