Oannès: I, the first consciousness of chaos, arose from the abyss that I might harden matter, and give law unto forms (plate 14) 1896

Odilon Redon created this lithograph, titled "Oannès," during a time of immense social and intellectual upheaval. The late 19th century was marked by rapid industrialization, scientific advancements, and philosophical shifts that questioned traditional beliefs. Redon's work is deeply rooted in symbolism and the exploration of the subconscious, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of his era. In "Oannès," the androgynous figure emerging from the abyss embodies the primordial chaos from which order is born. Redon’s choice to depict Oannès, a Mesopotamian mythical figure, suggests an interest in ancient narratives which challenge established Western traditions. The artist once said, "My drawings inspire, and are not to be defined. They determine nothing. They place us, as does music, in the ambiguous realm of the undetermined.” Ultimately, "Oannès" invites us to confront the unknown and to find beauty in the ambiguity of existence. It is an image that resonates with the human desire to understand our place in the universe.