Reiger 1911

This is Samuel Jessurun de Mesquita's 'Reiger', a standing heron print. Mesquita, a Dutch artist of Portuguese-Jewish origin, made this artwork during a period of burgeoning interest in nature and the natural world. Mesquita, a mentor to M. C. Escher, tragically perished during the Holocaust, a fate inextricably linked to his identity. This print, rendered in muted tones, offers a poignant reflection on themes of fragility and resilience. The heron, standing still amidst a dark background, evokes feelings of solitude and vulnerability. The artist’s choice of subject matter invites us to consider the historical context of his life and work. As a Jewish artist living in a time of increasing persecution, Mesquita's artistic vision reflects a deep engagement with identity, history, and the human condition. His life was tragically cut short because of who he was. The heron is a haunting reminder of the ephemerality of life in the face of systemic oppression.