The artwork entitled “Emblemata – Anvil,” created by the renowned artist M.C. Escher in the year 1931, is an illustration that forms part of the Expressionism art movement. It is a component of the series “XXIV Emblemata dat zijn zinne-beelden.”
In the artwork, an anvil is prominently depicted at the center, accentuated with intricate patterns and surrounding tools that imply the theme of labor and craftsmanship. The text inscribed in the upper part of the artwork reads “FORTITUDO MALLEO CONTUNDENTI COMPAR,” and the lower part contains a phrase in a different language, suggesting a reflection on perseverance and effort. The artwork is rendered in a monochrome palette, emphasizing the depth and texture through careful contrast and line work.