Near the Harbor (c.1880) by Odilon Redon

Near the Harbor - Odilon Redon - c.1880

Artwork Information

TitleNear the Harbor
ArtistOdilon Redon
Datec.1880
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions19.05 x 27.31 cm
Art MovementPost-Impressionism
Current LocationPrivate Collection

About Near the Harbor

The artwork “Near the Harbor,” crafted by the illustrious artist Odilon Redon circa 1880, exemplifies the Post-Impressionism art movement. Rendered in oil on canvas, it offers a cityscape view and measures 19.05 by 27.31 centimeters. Currently part of a private collection, this work captures a moment in time with a harbor setting likely to be the artist’s interpretation rather than a literal depiction.

The artwork presents a harbour scene characterised by a keen engagement with atmospheric effects and a thoughtful composition. Towards the center, there is a toppled cart or wagon, with its contents spilled and wheel exposed to the sky, suggesting a moment of unrest or neglect. To the right, barrels are stacked, possibly indicating commerce or goods transport local to the harbor environment. The left side of the painting is bordered by buildings which, along with the cart and barrels, frame the dusty ground that occupies the forefront of the scene, leading to a sense of depth. The sky, rendered in soft blues, whites, and purples, conveys the transient light of the harbor, possibly at dawn or twilight.

The artist’s use of muted yet meaningful color variations and textural brushwork typical of Post-Impressionism adds to the artwork’s emotional resonance, inviting contemplation of the scene’s tranquility against the bustling backdrop of harbor life. The relative absence of human figures draws the viewer’s focus to the interplay of objects, structures, and atmosphere, allowing one to imagine the stories and daily activities that infuse the area. Overall, “Near the Harbor” evokes a sense of quiet observation, characteristic of Redon’s approach to capturing the essence of a moment.

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