Faust and Mephistopheles (1880) by Odilon Redon

Faust and Mephistopheles - Odilon Redon - 1880

Artwork Information

TitleFaust and Mephistopheles
ArtistOdilon Redon
Date1880
Mediumlithography,paper
Art MovementSymbolism
Current LocationArt Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL, US

About Faust and Mephistopheles

The artwork “Faust and Mephistopheles” was created by Odilon Redon in 1880. It is a piece of lithography on paper that belongs to the Symbolism movement and is categorized under literary painting. Currently, the artwork can be found in the Art Institute of Chicago, in Chicago, Illinois, United States.

In the artwork, one observes a profound psychological encounter depicted through the shadowy and evocative technique characteristic of Redon’s lithographs. The two central figures, Faust and Mephistopheles, are portrayed in close proximity, with their gazes implying a complex and perhaps unnerving interaction. Faust appears to be contemplating deeply, with his gaze slightly averted, while Mephistopheles, commonly represented as a sinister entity, looms in the background, obscured yet unmistakably present. The somewhat ethereal quality of the lithograph allows for the intangible and metaphysical themes of the narrative, drawn from Goethe’s interpretation of the Faust legend, to be suggested rather than explicitly detailed.

Redon’s work is known to evoke emotion and thought through symbolic imagery rather than realistic depictions, which is evident in the dark, dreamlike quality present in “Faust and Mephistopheles”. This piece exemplifies the artist’s skill in creating atmospheric and enigmatic compositions that invite viewers to look beyond the physical appearance of the subjects to uncover deeper meanings.

Other Artwork from Odilon Redon

More Symbolism Artwork

Scroll to Top