Maurits Cornelis Escher, Christmas Card

Maurits Cornelis Escher, Christmas Card

Maurits Cornelis Escher is renowned for his canvas prints that continuously tread the fine line between reality and make-believe. His piece, "Christmas Card," is a testament to this unique style. Cast in monochromatic shades of black and white, it exhibits his trademark optical illusions coupled with intricate geometric patterns; giving the simple scenery an air of enigma.

In Christmas Card, just like in all his work, Escher makes us doubt what we see as he plays with architecture's dualities: above - below or inside out. He passed through drawing everyday life into more fantastical constructs reasoning that realism/probable things can be drawn from observation but you should imagine/improbable things.

Despite this complexity however, there remains a striking clarity about it—a characteristic signature in every Escher oil painting—as well as sharp contrasts achieved largely by using only two colors or shades thereof.

As a fitting tribute to the festive season captured therein, one finds within Christmas Card a soothing symmetry—irrespective of its unreal possibility—in both form and thought reminiscent of carols sung around familial warmth. Not available currently as poster or for download high_resolution image formats though it serves as an exquisite addition to anyone’s holiday art collection. The puzzle-like structure adds extra charm which intrigures viewers curiosity's sparkle bearing testimony yet again to Escher’s genius.