Artwork

Frontispiece

Frontispiece, by Odilon Redon, ink, 1889
Frontispiece, by Odilon Redon, ink, 1889

Frontispiece is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Frontispiece is a lithograph created by Odilon Redon in 1889. It is a print that showcases the artist's distinctive style.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a shadowy figure huddled in a dark corner, overshadowed by a large winged form. The dark background and rough lines evoke a dreamlike atmosphere. The association with Gustave Flaubert's *Tentation de Saint Antoine* suggests a connection to themes of temptation and visionary experiences.

Technique & Style

The lithograph features rough, sketchy lines that contribute to its unsettling, dreamy quality. The use of lithography allowed Redon to achieve a distinctive print style characterized by expressive, gestural marks.

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.