Maurits Cornelis (M.C.) Escher was born on June 17, 1898, in Leeuwarden
(Holland). Drawing was his favorite subject at school, and in youth age he
became acquainted with linocut. In 1921, Escher and his parents visited the
Riviera and Italy. Unimpressed by the tropical flowers of the mediterranean
climes, he made detailed drawings of cacti and olive trees. He also sought out
high places and dramatic vistas to sketch, some of his later works were
influenced by these sights. Later he returned to Italy. He died in 1973.
