Artwork

Tete d'Enfant (Head of a Child)

Tete d'Enfant (Head of a Child), by Odilon Redon, ink, 1899
Tete d'Enfant (Head of a Child), by Odilon Redon, ink, 1899

Tete d'Enfant (Head of a Child) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1899 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Tete d'Enfant (Head of a Child) is a lithograph created by Odilon Redon in 1899, depicting a child's face in a distinctive, expressive manner.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a child looking upwards, is partially shaded by a wide-brimmed hat, with foliage elements visible above, suggesting a symbolic or whimsical context.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, quick strokes and soft rendering of the face, contrasted with the dark, thick hat brim, the work embodies a dreamy, spontaneous quality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1899, specific provenance details are not provided in the available information.

Context

Reflective of Redon's exploration of lithography, this piece demonstrates the medium's capacity for expressive, sketch-like works, inviting viewers to explore the technique further.

Legacy

As a representative of Redon's lithographic output, Tete d'Enfant contributes to the artist's broader legacy in capturing ephemeral moments through printmaking.

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.