Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Odilon Redon, charcoal, 1882
Untitled, by Odilon Redon, charcoal, 1882

Untitled is a charcoal drawing by the Impressionist artist Odilon Redon. It dates from 1882 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a charcoal and chalk drawing on paper created by Odilon Redon in 1882, exemplifies the artist's early monochromatic period, preceding his transition to color in the 1890s.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a shadowy, robed figure with a hidden face and contorted body, conveying a sense of mysterious power. The figure's pose and obscured identity invite interpretation, characteristic of Symbolist themes.

Technique & Style

Redon employed soft, smudgy charcoal lines to achieve a three-dimensional effect in the robe's folds, set against a dark, contrasting background. This technique, reminiscent of his noirs series, emphasizes texture and volume.

History & Provenance

Created in 1882, this work is part of Redon's initial body of work dominated by charcoal and lithography, marking a period before his exploration of pastels and oils.

Context

As a leading figure in French Symbolism, Redon's Untitled reflects the movement's emphasis on suggestive, enigmatic imagery, encouraging viewer engagement with the unknown.

Closed Eyes
Closed Eyes, 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: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Odilon Redon in 1882.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Museum of Modern Art.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Impressionism.