Circle Limit III

1959

M.C. Escher

Associated Names
M.C. Escher

Artist, Dutch, 1898 - 1972

The image shows a circular design divided by dashed lines into four quadrants. Each section contains repeated abstract shapes resembling fish or birds with a symmetrical pattern, outlined in a greenish hue. The shapes are arranged in rotational symmetry around the circle and vary in size, creating a sense of movement toward the center. Numbers "3" and "4" are included within the circle, suggesting a progression or sequence. The overall composition evokes mathematical elegance similar to a kaleidoscope pattern or the organic form of a coral reef.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    woodcut in blue

  • Credit Line

    Print Purchase Fund (Rosenwald Collection)

  • Dimensions

    image (diameter): 44.1 cm (17 3/8 in.)
    sheet: 47 x 59.5 cm (18 1/2 x 23 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1984.61.12

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bool 1981, no. 434, State (partial proof)

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

The artist; to the M. C. Escher Foundation, Baarn, The Netherlands, 1968–72. Dr. Ronald H. Cordover, Franklin Lakes, NJ; purchased by exchange, NGA, 1984.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1997

  • M.C. Escher: A Centennial Tribute, National Gallery of Art, Washington; San Diego Museum of Art; The Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, 1997-1999.

2000

  • "M.C. Escher", Knoxville Museum of Art, 2000.

Bibliography

1981

  • Bool, F.H. et al. M.C. Escher: His Life and Complete Graphic Work. Amsterdam: Meulenhoff, 1981; English-language edition, New York: Harry N. Abrams, 1982.

Inscriptions

upper left in graphite: 3; lower left in graphite: 4; upper right in graphite: 4; lower right in graphite: 3; lower right verso in graphite: P301A-x-'69

Wikidata ID

Q74065825

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