Artwork

Le char d'Apollon

Le char d'Apollon, by Odilon Redon, oil, 1908
Le char d'Apollon, by Odilon Redon, oil, 1908

Le char d'Apollon is an oil painting by Odilon Redon. It dates from 1908 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

Le char d'Apollon is a 1908 oil painting by French Symbolist artist Odilon Redon, characteristic of his later work in its use of color and imaginative subject matter.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a mythological scene: a chariot drawn by four white horses appears to float above a rocky surface, set against a backdrop of greens, blues, and white clouds, evoking a sense of dynamic movement.

Technique & Style

Redon's shift to oil painting in the 1890s allowed for greater exploration of color and texture, evident in Le char d'Apollon's dreamlike composition and vivid palette, marking a departure from his earlier monochromatic works.

History & Provenance

The painting is now part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection, exemplifying Redon's later style after he abandoned his characteristic noirs around 1900.

The Chariot of Apollo
The Chariot of Apollo, Odilon Redon

Artist & collection

Portrait of Odilon Redon

Artist

Odilon Redon

Odilon Redon (born Bertrand Redon; French: ; 20 April 1840 – 6 July 1916) was a French Symbolist draftsman, printmaker, and painter.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Fitzwilliam Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Le char d'Apollon?

Le char d'Apollon was painted by Odilon Redon in 1908.

Where can I see Le char d'Apollon?

Le char d'Apollon is held by Fitzwilliam Museum.