Odilon Redon, a French artist of the late 19th and early 20th century, created several works of art representing Parsifal, the hero knight from Richard Wagner’s opera. One such work is a lithograph completed in 1912. The print features murky tones that combine with Parsifal’s vacant stare to create an air of mystery, something in common with many other prints by Redon.
The use of predominantly violet and black colors adds to the tragic atmosphere expressed in the artwork. Interestingly, this portrayal contrasts starkly with an earlier lithograph by Redon from 1891-1892 where he depicted Parsifal as haunted by an inner dream and transformed into a magus. Although Redon mainly worked on black and white artworks during his early career, he still exploited suggestive possibilities effectively to form monochromatic noirs like this particular lithograph.
Overall, “Parsifal” is just one example of how imaginative and enigmatic works can find favor among art enthusiasts even years after creation. It combines elements from literature with visual arts as well as insights drawn from the subconscious.
