Ss. Giovanni et Paolo, Rome (May 1936) (1936) by M.C. Escher

Ss. Giovanni et Paolo, Rome (May 1936) - M.C. Escher - 1936

Artwork Information

TitleSs. Giovanni et Paolo, Rome (May 1936)
ArtistM.C. Escher
Date1936
Mediumlithography
Art MovementSurrealism

About Ss. Giovanni et Paolo, Rome (May 1936)

The artwork titled “Ss. Giovanni et Paolo, Rome (May 1936)” was created by the renowned artist M.C. Escher in the year 1936. The medium used for this piece is lithography, a printmaking technique that Escher mastered throughout his career. Although Escher is often associated with Surrealism, his diverse body of work defies easy classification; however, this particular artwork is more representative of a cityscape rather than Escher’s typical mind-bending explorations of infinity and perspective.

The artwork portrays a complex architectural scene dominated by the imposing edifice of the Basilica of Saints John and Paul (‘Santi Giovanni e Paolo’) located in Rome. Escher has skillfully used tones of black, white, and various grays to depict the solidity and texture of the buildings. The play of light and shadow, a characteristic aspect of Escher’s style, adds depth and a sense of realism to the structure. Despite conveying a realistic representation of the scene, there is an aura of silent stillness that aligns with some surreal elements, making the scene appear both familiar and otherworldly. There’s a notable contrast in the scene with the organic form of a solitary palm tree against the rigid, angular architecture. The viewer’s perspective seems to be from a slightly elevated angle, looking upon the rooftops and facades. The meticulously detailed stonework and windows elicit Escher’s precision, while the absence of human presence lends the cityscape an ethereal quality.

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