M. C. Escher

Date of Birth: June 17, 1898

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: March 27, 1972

Biography

Maurits Cornelis Escher, widely known as M.C. Escher, was a Dutch graphic artist born on June 17, 1898, in Leeuwarden, Netherlands. He is renowned for his intricate and mathematically inspired woodcuts, lithographs, and mezzotints. Escher’s work features impossible constructions, explorations of infinity, architecture, and tessellations. He had a profound interest in the mathematical concepts of symmetry and perspective, which he often incorporated into his art. Escher initially studied architecture but switched to graphic arts under the encouragement of his teacher, Samuel Jessurun de Mesquita. Over his career, he created over 2,000 drawings and sketches, and some of his most famous works include “Relativity,” “Drawing Hands,” and “Waterfall.” Despite his lack of formal mathematical training, Escher’s work has fascinated mathematicians and scientists, and his pieces are celebrated for their exploration of geometric patterns and visual paradoxes. Escher’s influence extends beyond the art world, impacting areas such as cognitive psychology, crystallography, and even quantum mechanics. He passed away on March 27, 1972, in Laren, Netherlands, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and perplex.

5 Interesting Facts about M. C. Escher

1. M.C. Escher was left-handed.

2. He was often inspired by his travels to Italy, Spain, and other parts of Europe, where he was captivated by the landscapes and architecture.

3. Escher created 448 lithographs, woodcuts, and wood engravings, as well as over 2,000 drawings and sketches.

4. Despite his artistic fame, he struggled financially for much of his life.

5. Escher’s work was not widely recognized until later in his life, and he received little attention from the art community during his early career.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from M. C. Escher

1. “Only those who attempt the absurd will achieve the impossible. I think it’s in my basement… let me go upstairs and check.”

2. “Are you really sure that a floor can’t also be a ceiling?”

3. “We adore chaos because we love to produce order.”

4. “He who wonders discovers that this in itself is wonder.”

5. “My work is a game, a very serious game.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

M.C. Escher’s highest net worth was estimated to be modest, as he did not achieve significant financial success during his lifetime. His works are now considered priceless and are held in high regard in museums and private collections around the world.

Children

M.C. Escher had three sons with his wife Jetta Umiker: George Arnold Escher (born in 1926), Arthur Escher (born in 1930), and Jan Escher (born in 1938).