Hideous Larvae
Original title: Hideous Larvae
kurzbeschreibung
Two human figures crouch in a dark, cavernous space — this motif defines the lithograph Abscheuliche Larven, created by Odilon Redon in 1896. The sheet measures 45 x 31.3 cm, with the image itself 17.9 x 17.2 cm.
Description
Two crouching figures with distorted faces reflecting fear or despair occupy a gloomy, shadow-streaked space, where a tunnel-like structure emerges in the background. Light falls from above, accentuating the contours of their bodies and the division of the space. Gray tones dominate the palette; hatching and lines create an eerie atmosphere.
Context
Redon made this print in 1896 as part of his graphic work, which often takes up fantastic and dreamlike subjects. In this phase he turned increasingly to lithography, after having become known mainly for his charcoal drawings. Larvae and threatening creatures are recurring motifs in Redon's oeuvre, which processes literary and symbolist influences.
Impact
Oppression arises from the distorted faces and the dark, shadow-rich surroundings. The light falling from above heightens the contrast between the pale figures and the gloomy environment, thus underlining the image's menace.
Technique
For this lithograph, Redon used shading and fine lines to shape bodies and space. The prevailing gray nuances result from the varying density of ink applied to the lithographic stone.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)