The artwork titled “Escher’s Father” was created by the artist M.C. Escher in 1916 and is categorised within the Expressionism movement. It is a portrait genre work, offering a visual depiction intended to convey the essence of the artist’s father.
In examining the artwork, one notices its stark contrast and bold execution, inherent to the expressionist style which often emphasizes emotional experience over physical reality. The subject of the portrait is depicted in profile, imparting a contemplative or introspective demeanor. The use of heavy, cutting lines gives the work a strong graphic quality, with the dark background enhancing the subject’s features. Facial expressions and details are rendered in a manner that appears both abstract and deeply telling, indicative of the artist’s intent to represent more than mere physical likeness, delving into character and emotion as well.