Flor de Pascua - Madonna 1921

Editor: So, this is M.C. Escher’s "Flor de Pascua - Madonna," a woodcut print from 1921. The stark black and white creates such a dramatic feel. What jumps out at you about the symbolism in this piece? Curator: Immediately, I am struck by the inversion of light and shadow, reminiscent of the Northern Expressionist tradition. How does this stark contrast contribute to your understanding of the Madonna archetype? Consider the traditional association of light with divinity. Escher seemingly subverts this, casting the mother figure in a somewhat severe light. Editor: That's an interesting point, it hadn’t occurred to me that way. I suppose I was reading her gaze as tender, but with the hard lines, there's a different story. Curator: Yes, but what if that “severeness” is not cruelty, but strength? Maternal strength isn't always gentle. Notice the parallel lines in the background and in her clothing, forming vertical bars around them. What emotions are conjured by these structures? Are they confining, protective, or both? Editor: I see what you mean. It's both tender and…strong-willed? Curator: Exactly! Maternal love is complex. The composition invites us to reconsider idealized images and contemplate the less-gentle realities of motherhood. Editor: Wow. I will not look at motherhood or madonna images in quite the same way from now on. Thanks for sharing your expertise. Curator: And thank you for posing the question; it made me view Escher’s print with fresh eyes, also!