The Death of Orpheus

Odilon Redon

Created:
Movement:
1910
Symbolism
key Notes:
Symbolism, Dreamlike Atmosphere
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
36 1/4 x 28 1/4 in. (92.1 x 71.8 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"The Death of Orpheus," created by Odilon Redon in 1893, depicts the mythological figure Orpheus in a moment of tragic demise, reflecting themes of loss and the interplay between life and death. This work exemplifies Redon's Symbolist style, characterized by its dreamlike quality and use of color, which significantly influenced the development of modern art and the exploration of psychological depth in visual representation.

Description of the work:

Odilon Redon's "The Death of Orpheus" features a somber palette dominated by deep blues and muted earth tones, creating a melancholic atmosphere that reflects the tragic narrative of Orpheus's demise. The composition is characterized by ethereal forms and a dreamlike quality, with swirling lines and organic shapes that evoke a sense of movement and emotional depth, encapsulating the themes of loss and transcendence inherent in the myth.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
The Death of Orpheus