M. C. Escher and the Chand Baori stepwell in India.
Updated: Mar 2, 2020
Hand with Reflecting Sphere by M. C. Escher 1935
Ever since my art teacher in school handed me a book depicting this picture by M. C. Escher, and a mirror ball, and told me to get busy, I have been a huge fan of his work. He is by far my favourite graphic artist of all time.
Relativity by M. C. Escher 1953
Ascending and Descending by M. C. Escher 1960
Recently I came across these pictures on the net, of a stepwell situated in the village Abhaneri near Jaipur in Indian state of Rajasthan.
I was absolutely gob smacked and was instantly reminded of Escher’s work
This is one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India. It was built in 9th century, has 3500 narrow steps and is 13 storeys and 100 feet deep.
I wonder if Escher knew of this place.
Apparently the arid climate forced the locals to dig deep for a dependable water source, one that would last throughout an entire year.
As amazing as this structure is, I wouldn’t be too enthusiastic about drinking out of that well.
Still from the 2006 film The Fall
Photos of the Chand Baori well from http://www.moolf.com/interesting/the-deepest-step-well-in-the-world.html