Emblemata - Signpost 1931

Editor: This is M.C. Escher's "Emblemata - Signpost," created in 1931. It's a print, primarily in black and white, with a very strong linear quality. There’s a striking, almost stark mood to the piece. What do you see in it? Curator: Well, immediately, I see a convergence of paths. The central image, the signpost itself, is inherently symbolic of choice, direction. Notice the Latin phrase above, "Omnes praeter unam praeclusae," which translates to "All but one are closed." This suggests a deliberate limitation of options, perhaps even a sense of predetermination. Does that resonate with you at all? Editor: It does. I also see that radiating pattern beneath the signpost—like stars or dust, maybe representing potential routes. Curator: Precisely. And that connects us to a deeper, perhaps psychological, reading. Escher frequently grappled with ideas of infinity and limitation. This piece suggests that perceived freedom of choice might be an illusion. Consider, also, the textual element below. What's its message? Editor: It's in Dutch, but it seems to be about cautiously or carelessly taking a free road, suggesting only one choice matters because every other road will be blocked. That's very existential. Curator: Yes, Escher is pointing to how deeply the symbols connect to one another in our decision making. Editor: I’d been so focused on the image, I almost missed the deeper symbolic meaning behind it. Thank you! Curator: It’s in exploring the links between images and text that we understand how the images linger in our collective imagination.