Artwork

Saint Anthony and the Two Temptresses (Saint Antoine et deux Tentatrices)

Saint Anthony and the Two Temptresses (Saint Antoine et deux Tentatrices), by Odilon Redon, ink, 1898
Saint Anthony and the Two Temptresses (Saint Antoine et deux Tentatrices), by Odilon Redon, ink, 1898

Saint Anthony and the Two Temptresses (Saint Antoine et deux Tentatrices) is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This drawing, Saint Anthony and the Two Temptresses, is a work on laid paper created with brush and black ink.

About this work

Overview

This drawing, Saint Anthony and the Two Temptresses, is a work on laid paper created with brush and black ink.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts Saint Anthony crucified, flanked by two mysterious female figures with obscured faces, representing a dramatic confrontation between faith and desire.

Technique & Style

Redon employed bold, sharp lines and cross-hatching to create a tense atmosphere, using ink to achieve a sense of angularity and drama.

Context

The artwork explores themes of temptation and spirituality, reflecting Redon's interest in the internal struggle between faith and desire.

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.