Still Life and Street
Print (Woodcut on paper) • M.C. Escher (Maurits Cornelis Escher)
Style & Movement
Surealism / Mathematical Art / Op Art precursor; specifically reflecting Escher's interest in impossible spaces and visual paradoxes.
Medium & Technique
Woodcut; relief printing using intricate cross-hatching and fine-line engraving techniques to achieve tonal depth and geometric precision.
Creation Period
Original design dated March 1937 (indicated by 3-'37 on the block).
Dimensions & Format
The original woodcut image size is approximately 46 cm x 45 cm (18.1 in x 17.7 in); Square format displayed in a larger modern square frame.
Subject Description
A surreal composition merging two distinct perspectives: a foreground still life of books, playing cards, an ashtray, and a pipe rests on a table that seamlessly transitions into a deep, narrow Italian street scene (specifically inspired by Amalfi). The 'impossible' transition creates a topological paradox where the table surface becomes the street floor.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good (Likely a high-quality reproduction or later printing). The paper appears flat with no significant foxing or water damage visible behind the glass; the black ink remains crisp.
Estimated Market Value
If a modern reproduction/poster: $30 - $100. If an authentic lifetime woodcut printed by Escher: $15,000 - $35,000. If a posthumous edition: $1,000 - $3,000.
Auction Estimate
Based on the framing and lack of a hand-signature, this is likely a high-quality exhibition poster or posthumous print, estimated at $100 - $500.
Provenance History
Unknown. No visible gallery labels or signatures outside the block are discernable in the image. The 'MCE' monogram is part of the original woodcut block design.
Art Historical Significance
This was Escher's first 'impossible' reality print, marking a significant transition from his descriptive landscape period to his conceptual/mathematical explorations of space and perspective.
Notable Features
Features the 'MCE' monogram in the lower right corner and the date '3-'37' in the lower left, both characteristic of the original woodcut block.
Condition Issues
Possible slight yellowing of the paper at the edges; minor glare and reflections from the current non-archival glass. Framing appears to be a basic modern black wood or metal frame.
Conservation Recommendations
If the print is an original woodcut, it should be removed from the current frame and remounted using acid-free materials and UV-protective museum glass. Avoid direct sunlight.