Project Title: Hand with Reflecting Sphere by M.C. Escher

Original Design: Hand with Reflecting Sphere is a lithograph by M.C. Escher featuring a reflective spherical mirror held by the artist’s hand. In the reflection, the viewer sees a distorted version of Escher’s study, including a self-portrait of Escher himself gazing back at the viewer. This work plays with the concepts of reflection and perception, demonstrating how a simple spherical mirror can transform and warp the perspective of an entire environment.

Creation Year: 1935

Creation Location: Baarn, Netherlands

Read This if you are Into: Self-portraiture, optical illusions, reflections, surrealism, the interplay of light and shadow, and the exploration of perception in art.

Why is this important: Hand with Reflecting Sphere is a significant piece in Escher's body of work, highlighting his fascination with perspective, self-reference, and the nature of reality. By employing a spherical mirror, Escher masterfully distorts the space around him, showcasing his skill in manipulating perspective. The artwork functions both as a self-portrait and a philosophical commentary on perception and existence. It is iconic in demonstrating how artists can challenge and manipulate the viewer’s sense of space and self-awareness, making it a compelling and enduring piece that intrigues art enthusiasts and mathematicians alike.