Artwork

And Bound Him a Thousand Years

And Bound Him a Thousand Years, by Odilon Redon, 1899
And Bound Him a Thousand Years, by Odilon Redon, 1899

And Bound Him a Thousand Years is a print by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1899 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

And Bound Him a Thousand Years is a print by Odilon Redon, part of his final lithographic portfolio, which explores themes from the Book of Revelation.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an angel restraining a dragon with a spear, directly illustrating a passage from Revelation where the dragon is bound for a thousand years.

Technique & Style

Redon's work is characterized by a dreamlike quality, but in this series, he adheres closely to the biblical text, employing a style reminiscent of traditional biblical illustrations. The use of shadowy, atmospheric elements is notable.

History & Provenance

Published by Ambroise Vollard, the portfolio was created when Redon's reputation was already established, and Vollard was actively promoting his work in Paris and internationally.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Odilon Redon

Artist

Odilon Redon

Born Bertrand-Jean Redon on 20 April 1840 in Bordeaux, the artist adopted the name Odilon from his mother, Marie-Odile.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.