Postal Greeting Card 1956

M.C. Escher created this postal greeting card in 1956. The image presents an intricate tessellation of birds and leaves, fitting together to create a repeating pattern within a hexagonal shape. Escher, working in the Netherlands, was deeply influenced by mathematical principles and visual paradoxes. His work often played with perspective and the representation of infinity. This piece reflects the cultural fascination with geometry that was prevalent during the mid-20th century, driven by advancements in science and technology. Escher, though not formally part of any specific movement, challenged the traditional art world by blending art with mathematical precision. Understanding Escher's work involves looking at the broader intellectual climate of his time. Scholarly resources, including mathematical treatises and writings on visual perception, can offer valuable insights into the context that shaped his artistic vision. Recognizing the contingent factors that influenced Escher's art gives us a richer appreciation of his legacy.