Iphis was painted by Robert Delaunay in 1779.

Where can I see Iphis?

Iphis is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Iphis?

Iphis is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Iphis

Robert Delaunay , 1779

Iphis is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Robert Delaunay. It dates from 1779 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Iphis is an etching and engraving created by French artist Robert Delaunay in 1779. This print represents an early stage in Delaunay's artistic development, preceding his pivotal role in the Orphist movement.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene woman in a white dress standing calmly by a tree, her hands resting on a fence. The composition's use of a dark background and natural framing elements (tree and fence) emphasizes the subject's tranquility and isolation.

Technique & Style

Characterized by fine lines and meticulous detail, Iphis showcases Delaunay's early printmaking techniques. The work's emphasis on structure and contrast foreshadows the abstract and chromatic explorations that would define his later style.

History & Provenance

Created in 1779, Iphis predates Delaunay's Orphist period and aligns with the experimental spirit of the School of Paris, a milieu where artists innovated visual languages.

Context

While Delaunay is best known for co-founding Orphism with Sonia Delaunay, Iphis reflects his formative engagement with printmaking, a medium in which he frequently depicted women in quiet, contemplative poses.

Artist & collection

Artist

Robert Delaunay

Robert Delaunay was a French artist of the School of Paris movement; who, with his wife Sonia Delaunay and others, co-founded the Orphism art movement, noted for its use of strong colours and geometric shapes.