Parrot (1919) by M.C. Escher

Parrot - M.C. Escher - 1919

Artwork Information

TitleParrot
ArtistM.C. Escher
Date1919
Art MovementExpressionism

About Parrot

The artwork titled “Parrot,” created by artist M.C. Escher in 1919, is an exemplar of the Expressionism movement within the genre of animal painting. This piece reflects the early phase of Escher’s artistic development, showcasing his inclination toward the natural world and his capacity to manipulate form and space which would later define his more famous works.

The artwork presents a single parrot, executed with a strong emphasis on contrast and expressive lines, emblematic of the Expressionism style. The bird is rendered in black and white, which brings forth the intricate details of its feathers and textures, while also achieving a dramatic visual impact. The parrot is depicted in profile, perched on a simple stand, with its head turned as if to engage with an onlooker. Its feathers are meticulously detailed, capturing a sense of dynamism and texture that gives life to the stationary subject.

The bold use of dark and light areas creates a stark and engaging composition, while the surrounding darkness amplifies the parrot’s presence, anchoring the viewer’s attention on the subject. Although the work adheres to a semblance of realism in its portrayal, the heightened contrasts and stylization convey an emotional undercurrent that resonates with the expressive intents of the art movement it represents.

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