It's easier to analyze a painting than a mirror.

· Bits and Bobs 11/27/23

People don't want to look too closely at their own imperfections; it's threatening and scary and they'd rather not do it.

A narrative trick: make a mirror that looks like a painting, so people can engage with it more deeply.

"Hey wait a second, this painting actually kind of reminds me of us!" / "Really? What a crazy random happenstance!"