A wealthy matron was so proud of a valuable antique vase that she decided to have her bedroom painted the same color. Several painters tried to match the shade, but none succeeded to the satisfaction of the eccentric woman.
Eventually, a painter approached who was confident he could mix the proper color. The woman was pleased with the result, and the painter became famous.
Years later, he retired and turned the business over to his son. "Dad," the son asked, "there's something I've got to know. How did you get those walls to match the vase so perfectly?"
"Son," the father replied, "I painted the vase."