plate no. 8841

San Cosimo, Ravello (January 1932)

M.C. Escher, 1932

woodcutSurrealismlandscapemountainsbuildingslandscapecloudstreesarchitecture

some experience helpful

Recreating this woodcut helps develop skills in precise line work, understanding of value relationships, and creating depth through varying line density. It also teaches planning and execution of a complex composition using only black and white.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Prepare a detailed line drawing of the composition, paying attention to proportions and perspective.
step 02
Transfer the drawing onto a woodblock or linoleum sheet.
step 03
Carefully carve away the areas that will be white, using appropriate carving tools.
step 04
Start with larger areas and then move to finer details.
step 05
Proof the block frequently to check progress and make corrections.
step 06
Once satisfied, ink the block evenly with black ink.
step 07
Print the image onto paper using a press or hand-burnishing techniques.
step 08
Allow the print to dry completely.

color palette

primary · black

secondary · white

This is a black and white image, so no color mixing is required. The key is to control the amount of black ink applied to the paper.

techniques

·Linework
·Hatching
·Cross-hatching
·Value gradation
·Negative space

common pitfalls

→Inaccurate drawing leading to a distorted final image.
→Over-carving or under-carving the block.
→Uneven inking resulting in inconsistent print quality.
→Rushing the carving process and making mistakes.

materials

surface · Woodblock or linoleum sheet

required

·Woodblock or linoleum sheet
·Carving tools (gouges, knives)
·Black ink (oil-based or water-based)
·Brayer (roller)
·Inking plate
·Printing paper
·Pencil
·Tracing paper

optional

·Printing press
·Barren
·Apron

Use a soft wood or linoleum for easier carving. Choose a high-quality ink for sharp, clear prints. Consider using a printing press for more consistent results.

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