Escher is an unconventional and intriguing given name of Dutch origin, derived from the occupational surname 'Schilder', meaning 'painter'. It's a unique choice for parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful name for their child. The name Escher is often associated with the renowned Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher, famous for his mathematically inspired woodcuts, lithographs, and mezzotints featuring impossible constructions, explorations of infinity, and tessellations. However, the name itself predates its most famous bearer by centuries. In the Netherlands, Escher has been used as a given name since at least the 17th century, with records showing several individuals named Escher born in the province of Zeeland during this period. The name's unconventional spelling and pronunciation may pose challenges for some, as it is not typically found among common English names. It is pronounced /ˈɛʃər/ or /ˈeɪʃər/. Despite its rarity, Escher offers an attractive option for those looking to bestow a distinctive and artistic name upon their child.
The name Escher experienced a steady increase in popularity from 2009 onwards, with a significant jump occurring between 2012 and 2014. The peak was reached in 2014 with 31 births, after which the number of births began to decrease slightly. However, even as recently as 2023, the name Escher still saw 13 newborns, indicating that it continues to be a favored choice among parents.