Metamorphosis I

Metamorphosis I
Artist	M. C. Escher
Year	1937
Type	woodcut
Dimensions	19.5 cm × 90.8 cm (7.7 in × 35.7 in)

Metamorphosis I is a woodcut print by the Dutch artist M. C. Escher which was first printed in May, 1937. This piece measures 19.5 cm × 90.8 cm (7+5⁄8 in × 35+3⁄4 in) and is printed on two sheets.

The concept of this work is to morph one image into a tessellated pattern, then gradually to alter the outlines of that pattern to become an altogether different image. From left to right, the image begins with a depiction of the coastal Italian town of Atrani (see Atrani, Coast of Amalfi). The outlines of the architecture then morph to a pattern of three-dimensional blocks. These blocks then slowly become a tessellated pattern of cartoon-like figures in oriental attire.

See also

• Metamorphosis II
• Metamorphosis III
• Regular Division of the Plane

Sources

• Locher, J. L. (2000). The Magic of M. C. Escher. Harry N. Abrams, Inc. ISBN 0-8109-6720-0.