Definition & Meaning of "Droste effect"

What is the "Droste effect"?

The Droste effect is a visual trick where an image contains a smaller version of itself, creating a repeating, loop-like effect where the image seems to go on forever. This effect is named after a Dutch cocoa brand that used this idea on its packaging, the effect making the picture look like it is repeating or stretching into infinity. This effect can be seen in various forms of art and design, including paintings, illustrations, and digital media. The repeating pattern can give the illusion of an endless or recurring space, often creating a unique and dream-like visual effect.