: It allows you to "capture" or clone colors from an underlying image directly onto the mesh points, which is invaluable for creating photorealistic vector art.

you use a modern Illustrator (CC 2020+) — instead try native Mesh Tool + Gradient Mesh or upgrade to Astute Graphics’ Mesh Tormentor (paid, updated).

Unlocking Vector Realism: A Guide to Mesh Tormentor for Adobe Illustrator

Elias realized too late that "0442" wasn't a version number. It was a coordinate. And something from the other side of the mesh was trying to click back.

If you’re looking for gradient mesh or vector distortion tools in Illustrator, consider:

Tools to cut a single mesh into two or "sew" separate meshes together.