The artwork “Premier Disque” was created by the artist Robert Delaunay in the year 1913. It is an oil on canvas painting that embodies the abstract genre within the Orphism movement. Currently, this work is held within a private collection. The Orphic art movement, which is known for its use of strong colors and geometric shapes, is well represented in Delaunay’s piece.
This artwork is striking in its simplicity and complexity simultaneously. A series of concentric circles occupies the entirety of the canvas, evoking the sensation of dynamic movement. The colors used range through a vibrant spectrum, delineating segments of the circles with varying widths and tonalities. The juxtaposition of colors is thoughtful, creating visual vibrations and resonances that might suggest the influence of music, which was often a source of inspiration in Orphism. Delaunay’s use of color in this work is particularly innovative, disregarding the naturalistic color palettes of prior art movements, and instead exploring the emotional and expressive power of color itself. The abstract nature of the piece invites contemplation on the part of the viewer, allowing for numerous interpretations based on individual perception.
