Odilon Redon (1840-1916) was a French Symbolist painter, printmaker, and draughtsman known for his dreamlike and imaginative works. He is recognized for his contributions to the Symbolist art movement, characterized by its focus on conveying emotions, dreams, and the subconscious through visual symbolism. Here are some key points about Odilon Redon and his work:1. **Early Life and Background:** Odilon Redon was born on April 20, 1840, in Bordeaux, France. He initially pursued a career in architecture but later decided to devote himself to art.2. **Symbolism:** Redon was a prominent figure in the Symbolist movement, which sought to convey emotions, fantasies, and the mystical through symbolism and dreamlike imagery. His art often blurred the boundaries between reality and the imaginary.3. **Charcoal and Pastels:** Redon was known for his skillful use of charcoal and pastels in his works. His drawings and pastels frequently featured mysterious and fantastical subjects, including phantoms, mythical creatures, and dreamlike landscapes.4. **Noirs (The Black Series):** Redon gained recognition for his "Noirs" or "Black Series," a collection of drawings and lithographs executed in black charcoal or ink. These works often depicted nightmarish and eerie subjects, contributing to his reputation as a Symbolist artist.5. **Colorful Works:** In addition to his black and white works, Redon also explored color in his later paintings, creating vibrant and visually striking pieces. His use of color evolved as he continued to experiment with different styles and techniques.6. **Influence of Literature and Poetry:** Redon drew inspiration from literature, poetry, and mythology. He often depicted scenes from the works of authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Charles Baudelaire, as well as his own imagination.7. **"The Cyclops" and Other Themes:** Some of Redon's most famous works include "The Cyclops" (1898), which portrays a mythical one-eyed giant, and "The Smiling Spider" (1881), featuring a spider with a human face. These pieces exemplify his fascination with the mysterious and enigmatic.8. **Recognition:** Redon's work was influential in the art world and was exhibited in various Salons and exhibitions. He had a profound impact on the development of modern art, particularly Surrealism and abstraction.9. **Legacy:** Odilon Redon's art continues to captivate and inspire artists and art enthusiasts. His ability to create a dreamlike and evocative atmosphere through his use of symbolism and imaginative imagery remains influential in contemporary art.10. **Passing:** Odilon Redon passed away on July 6, 1916, in Paris, France, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its uniqueness and ability to transport viewers to a realm of fantasy and symbolism.Odilon Redon's exploration of the dreamlike, mystical, and symbolic aspects of art contributed significantly to the development of Symbolism and the broader landscape of modern art. His distinctive style and imaginative compositions continue to intrigue and resonate with audiences today.
Measures 20 x 24.
Sold "after' Redon.
Oil on canvas.

Good condition. No rips, tears, creases.