Artwork preview

Cain and Abel

Odilon Redon

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of two figures in a dynamic and tense interaction. The image depicts a scene with two figures who appear to be in a conflict or struggle. The figure in the foreground is crouched down, with one arm and one leg supporting their weight, while the other arm is extended forward. The second figure is elevated, poised above the first figure, holding a large stick or club above their head with both hands. The interaction between the two figures is charged with energy and motion, enhanced by strong, etched lines and the use of shading to create depth and texture. The background is relatively plain, with some light shading and sparse line work, drawing attention to the central action of the figures.

Artwork Details

Date
1886
Medium
etching on wove paper
Dimensions
3480 × 5280 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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