Derived from the word "faux" meaning false, these finishes simulate many rare material surfaces that have been used in construction. Faux finishes have been in use for thousands of years when the original material was too expensive, not available or its use technically impossible.

The great benefits of trompe l'oeil murals are that they can create the illusion of a space that could not normally exit, or would not be affordable to create. The illusion is also used to enlarge an area, like looking out into the distance, or into another room. It can also intrude into an area, for example objects hanging on a wall or painted on a tabletop or shelf, or even objects painted on a floor.