The artwork titled “First a pool of water, then a prostitute, the corner of a temple, a soldier’s face, a chariot with two rearing white horses” by artist Odilon Redon was created in the year 1888 through the medium of lithography on paper. Measuring 29 by 20.6 cm, this work is a part of the “Temptation of Saint Anthony (1st series)” and exemplifies the Symbolism art movement. The symbolic painting is currently housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, located in Chicago, IL, US.
The artwork presents a dreamlike assemblage of images rendered with enigmatic and ethereal qualities characteristic of Redon’s symbolic and visionary style. It depicts an array of elements as described by the title: from a reflective pool of water to human figures and architectural motifs to regal white horses bringing vitality and movement to the composition. The imagery is layered and possesses a narrative quality that invites contemplation. The juxtaposition of disparate elements contributes to a sense of mysticism and allure, which is all rendered in the deep contrasts and textural nuances afforded by lithography. In the darkness of the background, these elements emerge with a luminance, suggesting a narrative or allegorical significance that is left to the viewer’s interpretation.
