The artwork titled “David and Goliath,” created by Odilon Redon in 1875, is a charcoal on paper drawing that embodies the Symbolist art movement. Measuring 44 cm by 36 cm, this religious painting is a part of a private collection. The artwork explores a well-known biblical narrative through an evocative and moody style that is characteristic of Redon’s oeuvre.
The artwork portrays a dramatic and intimate moment from the biblical story of David and Goliath. On the right, David is depicted as a young, muscular figure, exuding a sense of strength and vitality. He is shown standing, with his body positioned to suggest a readiness for action or contemplation over his recent victory. The youth’s anatomy is rendered with careful attention to muscle tone and form, typical of classical influences. His head is bowed slightly in a reflective pose that may indicate humility or a solemn recognition of his feat.
On the left side of the composition rests the monumental head of Goliath, whose lifeless face is cast downwards, framed by a mass of dark hair. Goliath’s exaggerated size, as represented by his massive head, emphasizes the disparity between the giant and the young David, enhancing the narrative of an underdog triumphing over a seemingly insurmountable opponent. The giant’s features are detailed with intricate shadows and highlights, creating a somber and heavy presence that contrasts with the lightness of David’s figure.
The background is subtlety treated, with soft gradations of charcoal that create a sense of atmospheric depth. This vague setting focuses the viewer’s attention on the figures, highlighting the emotional and symbolic aspects of the story over specific geographic or historical details. The overall effect of the artwork is one of poignant contrast: between youth and death, strength and stillness, victory and defeat – all rendered with a profound psychological insight that is characteristic of Symbolist art.