Odilon Redon, the visual poet of Edgar Allan Poe : a study of the lithographic album 'A Edgar Poë'

Abstract

Odilon Redon, The Visual Poet of Edgar Allan Poe: A Study of the Lithographic Album A Edgar Poe argues that the album A Edgar Poe, published in 1882, fundamentally alters Redon's artistic career. The thesis advocates the importance of Poe's writing to Redon's development, contending that the lithographic album confirms nineteenth-century literary and artistic interest in Poe. The thesis maintains that, while Redon subsequently attempted to disassociate himself from the American writer, his art was recognized and admired for its Poe-esque visions. Chapter One examines Edgar Allan Poe's influence on the nineteenth-century French artistic and literary avant-garde. The chapter argues that the artistic and spiritual resemblance between Poe and Redon facilitates the design the lithographic album A Edgar Poe, a work Redon uses to promote his own standing as an artist. Through examination of the original plates of the lithographic album A Edgar Poe at The Art Institute of Chicago, Chapter Two illustrates Poe's centrality to the evolution of Redon's art. Chapter Three argues for the importance of A Edgar Poe in Redon's oeuvre, contending that subsequent albums and commissions show the important role of literary art in Redon's artistic growth. The chapter demonstrates the significance of Redon's work to the Symbolist avant-garde of Brussels. Utilizing Andre Mellerio's notes, essays, collected letters and writings in the Ryerson & Burnham Library at the Art Institute of Chicago, the thesis argues that the album A Edgar Poe represents a pivotal stage in Redon's career through its dedication to a literary artist and the unification of art and poetry. Contending that the album develops themes prevalent in the noirs, the thesis illustrates the artistic resemblance and relationship between Poe and Redon and emphasizes the crucial role of Poe's work in Redon's progression and acceptance as an artist.