Artwork

Cheval aile (Winged Horse)

Cheval aile (Winged Horse), by Odilon Redon, ink, 1894
Cheval aile (Winged Horse), by Odilon Redon, ink, 1894

Cheval aile (Winged Horse) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Cheval aile (Winged Horse) is a lithograph created by Odilon Redon in 1894. The print depicts a horse with outstretched wings in a predominantly black and white color scheme against a solid beige background.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a horse with wings, symbolizes a mythological or dreamlike creature, characteristic of Redon's exploration of the imaginary and the subconscious. The pose, with head down and wings spread, may imply a state of contemplation or impending movement.

Technique & Style

Executed in a sketchy style with loose lines and minimal detail, the lithograph conveys a sense of spontaneity. Subtle shading adds depth to the horse's form, while the limited color palette enhances the overall simplicity and elegance of the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1894, specific details regarding the print's provenance and exhibition history are not provided in the available information.

Context

Cheval aile reflects Redon's late 19th-century interest in Symbolism, a movement emphasizing emotional and psychological depth over realism. The work's dreamlike quality aligns with the era's artistic fascination with the subconscious.

Legacy

As part of Redon's oeuvre, Cheval aile contributes to the artist's reputation for blending fantasy and realism, influencing subsequent generations of artists exploring the realms of Symbolism and the imaginative.

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: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.