Escher-Inspired Mobius Strip II by Zadora-Gerlof

Crafted by the famed jeweler and sculptor Andreas von Zadora-Gerlof, this compelling sculpture brings to life the work of the great M.C. Escher. Escher was renowned for his so-called impossible creations, such as his 1963 woodcut Möbius Strip II (Red Ants) that inspired the present sculpture. Zadora imparts a remarkable degree of skill and planning in the construction of the piece, bringing Escher’s 2-dimensional mathematically-inspired work in to the third dimension. The design itself seems to defy gravity, illustrating the genius of these two artistic greats, Escher and Zadora.

During the mid-20th century, Escher created a series of works on the concept of the Möbius strip, discovered by the German mathematician and astronomer Ferdinand Möbius (1790-1868). A looping surface with one continuous side, a Möbius strip appears at first glance to be physically impossible, but it can, in fact, exist in reality. Escher incorporated the complex in his work for the first time in 1946 with his woodcut Horseman. Möbius Strip I from 1961 represents his first fully developed conceptualization of the form, with Möbius Strip II following shortly after in 1963.

Zadora brings Escher's vision to life in this large-scale work. Constructed from aluminum, copper and carbon fiber, the piece incorporates gigantic ants into its continuous form. Through a series of complex gear and wheel mechanisms powered by a magnetic and electrical propulsion system, the ants march endlessly around the infinity symbol, making Escher's vision a reality. 

The Canadian-born sculptor Baron Andreas von Zadora-Gerlof is recognized as the world's leading gemstone artist, and his international clientele includes the world’s most discerning connoisseurs. His pieces, which range from intricate sculptures such as this to innovative bespoke jewelry, are regarded as the most prized decorative artworks in modern time.

The sculpture is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by the artist.

Created 2014-15

157 1/2" high

Exhibited:
Design Days Dubai, March 16-20, 2015