Charles Filiger's Mystical Chromatic Notations: Rediscovering a Forgotten Symbolist
Charles Filiger, a French Symbolist artist born on November 28, 1863, in Thann, produced around 52 'chromatic notations' between 1900 and 1920, showcasing human faces alongside geometric designs. After moving to Paris in 1885 to display his Impressionist pieces, he felt dissatisfied and later settled in Pont-Aven, where he collaborated with artists such as Paul Gauguin. His significant creations include 'Giudizio Universale' (1892-1894) and 'Paysage du Pouldu' (1892). Supported by Count Antoine de La Rochefoucauld until 1901, he faced struggles with addiction and mental health, passing away on January 11, 1928, in Plougastel. His body of work, approximately 200 pieces, merges sacred themes with decorative elements and was rediscovered by André Breton in 1953, highlighting inner vision over mere sensation.
Key facts
- Charles Filiger (1863-1928) created about 52 'chromatic notation' drawings from 1900 to 1920.
- The works feature central human faces with radiating mandala-like geometric patterns.
- Filiger was a French Symbolist painter born in Thann on November 28, 1863.
- He moved to Paris in 1885 and later joined the Pont-Aven artist community in Brittany.
- His patrons included Count Antoine de La Rochefoucauld, who provided support until 1901.
- Filiger died on January 11, 1928, in Plougastel after a life marked by alcoholism and destitution.
- André Breton rediscovered Filiger's work in 1953, praising its focus on inner necessity.
- Key works are held at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris and the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
Entities
Artists
- Charles Filiger
- Paul Gauguin
- André Breton
- Cézanne
- Renoir
- Manet
- Van Gogh
- Rousseau
Institutions
- Salon des Indépendants
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Quimper
- Indianapolis Museum of Art | Newfields
- Musée d'Orsay
- Galerie Malingue
Locations
- Thann
- Paris
- France
- Pont-Aven
- Brittany
- Le Pouldu
- Plougastel