Christopher David White is a sculptor, but he’s also an illusionist of sorts. Take a look at his amazing creations to see what we mean. Then take a closer look. Because what looks like petrified wood is actually meticulously-rendered ceramic.

Born in Bedford, Indiana, the Virginia-based American artist makes his predominantly clay sculptures by hand. With the theme of decay running throughout his work, White creates various pieces that resemble deteriorating pieces of wood, rusted metal, and other objects in the process of decomposition in order to explore the relationship between humans and nature.

“Change is a constant reminder that permanence is the ultimate illusion,” writes the artist on his website. “It is through the creation of hyper-realistic sculpture that I explore the relationship between nature, man, and the phenomenon of impermanence. The juxtaposition of natural and man-made features in combination with the skewing of scale, proportion, and material, helps in creating an altered perception – forcing the viewer to look closer.”