Artwork
Roger Marx
Roger Marx is a print by Odilon Redon. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
If you like how Redon turns a simple face into something personal, look up Odilon Redon (French, 1840–1916).
You see a man’s face in profile, drawn with thin, careful lines. His nose hooks slightly, his eye looks sharp, his beard is soft and full.
Redon made this print for a small circle—only a few copies exist. The man is Roger Marx, a critic who helped people notice Redon’s strange, dreamy art. The quiet lines feel like a private hello between friends.
If you like how Redon turns a simple face into something personal, look up Odilon Redon (French, 1840–1916).
Overview
This print is a portrait of Roger Marx, a prominent art critic, created by Odilon Redon using lithography. The work is characterized by its delicate and fine lines, capturing Marx's profile with subtle detail.
Subject & Meaning
Roger Marx was a significant figure in Redon's life, supporting his work and introducing it to a wider audience. The portrait reflects the close relationship between the artist and the critic, conveying a sense of intimacy and familiarity.
Technique & Style
Redon employed a restrained lithographic technique to render Marx's likeness, focusing on the subtleties of his profile. The use of thin, careful lines creates a quiet and contemplative atmosphere, underscoring the personal nature of the portrait.
History & Provenance
The print is one of a limited number of impressions made by Redon, suggesting it was intended for a small circle of acquaintances rather than a broader public. This limited edition adds to the work's intimate and personal character.
Artist & collection
Artist
Born Bertrand-Jean Redon on 20 April 1840 in Bordeaux, the artist adopted the name Odilon from his mother, Marie-Odile.
