Regular Division of The Plane with Birds 1949

M.C. Escher made this tessellation, Regular Division of The Plane with Birds, using a woodcut print. Escher was fascinated by the craft of transforming geometric forms into complex, repeating patterns, and this print displays his mastery of that process. You can almost feel the hand of the artist in the precise cuts that define each bird, and how the interplay of black ink and white paper creates a mesmerizing sense of depth and movement. Consider the labor-intensive nature of woodcut printing. Each line and shape must be carefully carved into the woodblock, demanding patience and technical skill. Yet the result is a work of art that transcends mere craft, becoming a meditation on infinity, and the harmony of order and chaos. The contrast between the black and white birds enhances the sense of rhythm and interconnectedness. Thinking about materials, making, and context allows us to appreciate the full meaning of an artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.