The 4th Day of the Creation 1926

M.C. Escher created "The 4th Day of Creation" using woodcut techniques, a testament to his meticulous craftsmanship. The stark contrast between black and white, achieved by carving away the wood to leave raised lines, powerfully defines the celestial bodies and landscapes. Look at how light emerges from the sun and moon, a direct result of the artist’s deliberate removal of material. The repetitive, linear carving builds up the textures, defining forms, and imbuing the work with depth. Woodcut is an age-old method with roots in both fine art and commercial printing; Escher mastered both traditions. The intensive labor involved is evident in every line. His precision transforms a readily available material into a visionary depiction of creation. Ultimately, it is this fusion of material, process, and vision that elevates the artwork, challenging any firm distinction between craft and fine art.