What is the origin of the idiom "mind's eye" and when to use it?

The idiom "mind's eye" likely dates back to the early 17th century, but its exact origin is not well-documented. It is based on the concept that the mind can envision or "see" things mentally, even though they are not physically present. This expression is used to refer to a person's ability to visualize, imagine, or mentally picture something. It is often used when discussing one's capacity for mental imagery, creativity, or the ability to mentally recall or conjure images.