Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Odilon Redon, ink, 1904
Untitled, by Odilon Redon, ink, 1904

Untitled is an ink print by Odilon Redon. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Odilon Redon's *Untitled* (1904) is a lithograph on chine appliqué, marking a transitional period in the artist's career as he moved away from Symbolist *noirs* and towards pastels and oils.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a loose, quick sketch of a person's head and shoulders in side view, characterized by spontaneous lines suggestive of a preliminary study.

Technique & Style

Executed in lithography on chine appliqué, the work features soft, pencil-like or charcoal-esque markings, reflecting Redon's adeptness with the medium before his shift to pastel and oil.

History & Provenance

Created after Redon's recognition following references in Huysmans’ *À rebours* (1884), the piece bears a small signature in the corner, authenticating the artist's hand.

Context

This lithograph demonstrates Redon's ongoing exploration of printmaking techniques, specifically lithography, which allowed for direct stone engraving of his spontaneous drawings.

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: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.