Christ was painted by Odilon Redon in 1887.

Where can I see Christ?

Christ is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Christ?

Christ is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Christ

Odilon Redon , 1887

Christ is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1887 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Odilon Redon’s 1887 lithograph titled Christ presents a stark, intimate portrait of the crucified figure. Rendered in black-and-white, the image concentrates on the visage, framed by a crown of thorns against a dark, jagged backdrop that suggests foliage or branches. The composition is rendered with strong contrasts, emphasizing the weight of the subject’s expression.

Subject & Meaning

The work focuses on the suffering of Christ, using the crown of thorns as a traditional emblem of pain and sacrifice. Redon captures a weary, solemn gaze, with deep shadows beneath the eyes that convey both physical exhaustion and spiritual contemplation, inviting viewers to reflect on the human dimension of the biblical narrative.

Technique & Style

Executed as a lithograph, the piece employs the stone‑based printing process that allows for fine tonal variation and repeated editions. Redon’s line work is precise yet expressive, with the spiky background elements rendered through sharp, incised strokes that contrast with the softer modeling of the facial features.

History & Provenance

Created in the late nineteenth century, this print belongs to Redon’s series of religious subjects produced during a period when he explored spiritual themes alongside his Symbolist interests. The work has been circulated in limited editions, typical of lithographic practice, and appears in several museum collections devoted to French printmaking.