Who painted I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale?

I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale was painted by Odilon Redon in 1896.

Where can I see I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale?

I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale?

I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale

Odilon Redon , 1896

I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale is a print by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1966.413.3
Credit line: Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland

About this work

Overview

I Saw a Flash of Light, Large and Pale is a print by Odilon Redon, inspired by Edward Bulwer-Lytton's 1859 novel, The Haunted and the Haunters. The work embodies the book's mystical and supernatural themes through enigmatic, near-abstract imagery.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a luminous, pale orb suspended in darkness, accompanied by indistinct, shadowy forms that could be interpreted as natural or human. The ambiguity intentionally evokes the novel's eerie atmosphere, prioritizing mood over clarity.

Technique & Style

Redon, an accomplished lithographer, collaborated with printer Auguste Clot to achieve rich tonal depth. Techniques included lateral crayon application, layered marks, and direct stone scratching, contributing to the dreamy, blurred effect reminiscent of sfumato.

History & Provenance

Created after Redon read The Haunted and the Haunters, this print demonstrates his practice of drawing inspiration from contemporary literature. The collaboration with Clot highlights Redon's established expertise in lithography by this period.