Different peoples inhabit the countries of the Ocean (plate 23) (1896) by Odilon Redon

Different peoples inhabit the countries of the Ocean (plate 23) - Odilon Redon - 1896

Artwork Information

TitleDifferent peoples inhabit the countries of the Ocean (plate 23)
ArtistOdilon Redon
Date1896
Mediumlithography,paper
Art MovementSymbolism

About Different peoples inhabit the countries of the Ocean (plate 23)

The artwork titled “Different peoples inhabit the countries of the Ocean (plate 23),” created by Odilon Redon in 1896, is a lithograph on paper. It is part of the series “The Temptation of Saint Anthony” and resides within the Symbolism art movement. As a symbolic painting, it likely conveys deeper meanings beyond its visual representation.

The artwork presents a dream-like vision with a composition of various ethereal forms and creatures. At the center, the viewer’s attention might be drawn to what appears as a cluster of glowing orbs, which could symbolize a profound or mystical presence. Surrounding the orbs are several indistinct figures and creatures, gracefully rendered with subtle tonal contrasts to exhibit a sort of otherworldly quality.

The figures do not adhere to strict representations of reality, but instead, seem to meld and morph, combining aspects of human, animal, and fantastical forms. The dark, atmospheric background of the lithograph suggests a place beyond the typical human experience, aligning with Redon’s interest in the intersection of imagination and the psyche.

The use of light and shadow is profound, with bright highlights suggesting illumination or revelation amidst the surrounding darkness. There is an ethereal quality to the creatures that hint at narratives or meanings that reach beyond the literal, inviting contemplation and interpretation.

The caption in French at the bottom of the artwork reinforces the sense of narrative and suggests a thematic connection with the unknown or the diversity of life in unexplored regions. In sum, this artwork from Redon’s “The Temptation of Saint Anthony” series evokes an otherworldly atmosphere ripe with symbolic content, characteristic of the Symbolist movement’s fascination with the inner world of emotion and ideas.

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