M. C. Escher (Dutch, 1898–1972) was a graphic artist renowned for mathematically inspired prints exploring illusion, infinity, and impossible architecture. During his lifetime, Escher was often viewed as outside the mainstream art world and received greater appreciation from mathematicians and scientists than from critics. His prints were typically issued in unsigned or unnumbered editions, making exact production numbers difficult to determine and contributing to the broad circulation of his work after his death.