Circular Forms Moon no 1 by Robert Delaunay

This magnificent study on paper, temporarily named “Circular Forms Moon no 1”, invites us to an intimate exploration of pure light and simultaneous contrasts. Through this refined work, the great creator Robert Delaunay lays the theoretical foundations of his revolutionary plastic language. This work bears witness to the emergence of a non-figurative and poetic painting, where the colored rhythm becomes the main vehicle of universal harmony and aesthetic emotion.

The image presents a central oval shape of a very luminous and almost opaque pinkish white, which stands as the heart of the composition. This shape is surrounded by a first crown of emerald green and apple green, followed by a wide ring of a deep and vibrant cobalt blue. A huge outer circle, in warm orange and textured brick red, encloses the inner pattern in a protective and dynamic movement. The whole stands out against a uniform and intense celestial blue background that gives depth to the scene. The light seems to spring directly from the white center, creating an atmosphere of purity and spiritual elevation through an organic geometry.

The artist reveals here a remarkable skill in handling light mediums on paper to translate transparency. His technique of applying subtle washes makes it possible to give an airy and vibrant texture to the colored circles, demonstrating a craftsman’s sensitivity of infinite visual delicacy.