Some optical illusions claim to test your IQ or even detect colorblindness—but one famous illusion might hint at your actual age. The image in question features two hidden figures: an older woman and a younger woman, depending on how you perceive it. Often dubbed "The Wife or Mother-in-Law" illusion, what you see first could say more about you than you think.
#### **A Brief History of the Illusion**
Though this illusion feels timeless, it dates back to 1888, when it first appeared on a German postcard. It was later redrawn in 1915 by a British cartoonist, solidifying its place in pop psychology. Over the years, researchers have suggested that your age—not just how you focus your eyes—influences which woman you notice first.
#### **What Do You See?**
At first glance, do you spot:
- A **young woman** looking away, her chin tucked into a scarf?
- Or an **older woman** with a prominent nose, her chin buried in a fur collar?
Once you’ve seen one, it can be tricky to unsee her and find the other. But according to studies, your initial perception might correlate with your age.
#### **The Science Behind the Illusion**
In a study of 400 people aged 18 to 68, younger participants tended to see the youthful woman first, while older individuals noticed the elderly woman more quickly. Psychologists suggest this could be because we’re subconsciously drawn to faces that resemble our own age group.
So, which woman did *you* see first? Share your answer—and see if it matches your real age!
