A black and white print of a forest scene by M.C. Escher. 'Woods near Menton' features a dense arrangement of stylised trees, creating a stark contrast and graphic simplicity.

Maurits Cornelis Escher, known as M.C. Escher, was a Dutch graphic artist who made mathematically inspired woodcuts, lithographs, and mezzotints. His work employs geometric patterns, tessellations, and impossible constructions. Escher explored the interplay between art and mathematics, creating images that challenge perception and logic. Although his work was not widely recognised within the art world during his lifetime, it gained popularity among scientists and mathematicians. His unique style continues to influence art and popular culture. 'Woods near Menton' depicts a forest scene rendered in black and white. The composition features a dense arrangement of trees with bare branches, creating a stark contrast against the lighter background. The trees are stylised, with their trunks and branches forming a network of lines and shapes. The ground is indicated by horizontal lines, adding a sense of depth to the image. The overall effect is one of graphic simplicity and visual complexity, typical of Escher's approach.