Delaunay created some of the first abstract paintings of the 20th century. His dazzling style of combining colors was named Orphism for Orpheus, the legendary musician known for his enchanting harmonies. In such works as Windows (Philadelphia Museum of Art) and Disks (Museum of Modern Art, New York City), Delaunay uses the static geometric forms of Cubism, which he makes dynamic through his bright, prismatic colors. Probably his best-known work is the Eiffel Tower series, one example of which is in the Guggenheim Museum, in New York City; and two versions are in the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Delaunay's use of color had a decisive influence on Paul Klee and the German Blue Rider group of artists, including Franz Marc and August Macke. Also based on Delaunay's innovations was the first American movement in abstract painting, which is known as Synchromism.
