“The Rag Pickers” is an artwork by M.C. Escher, created in 1918. It belongs to the Expressionism art movement and falls under the genre of a poster. The artwork depicts a certain level of abstraction and expression, consistent with the principles of the Expressionism movement.
The artwork features a prominent central figure, appearing to be a stylized character atop a pile of rags or papers, with a background divided into various abstract sections. The title “The Rag Pickers” is inscribed at the bottom in a stylized, curving font. The use of bold and contrasting colors, combined with jagged, irregular forms, encapsulates the expressive nature of the piece. The borders of the artwork are wavy, adding a dynamic, almost animated feel to the composition. The signature “M. C. Escher ’18” is visible at the lower right corner, marking the year of completion. This detailed and textural approach aligns with the Expressionist endeavor to convey emotional experience rather than physical reality.