Ophelia (with flowers)
Painting on paper • Odilon Redon (French, 1840–1916)
Style & Movement
Symbolism
Medium & Technique
Pastel on paper (possibly highlights of gouache). Technique involves energetic pastel strokes, stippling, and atmospheric blending in the background to create a dreamlike quality.
Creation Period
Circa 1905-1908
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 64 x 91 cm; Landscape format
Subject Description
A profile portrait of a young woman identifies as Ophelia from Shakespeare's Hamlet, presented in a state of melancholy introspection. She is accompanied by a lush, semi-abstract burst of floral motifs and botanical forms that dissolve into the surrounding atmosphere, symbolizing her internal state and eventual fate.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. As this appears to be a digital display of a museum-held work, the original exhibits stable pigment but shows typical aging of paper supports used in the early 20th century.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000,000 - $7,000,000 USD (based on private treaty and auction records for major Redon pastels)
Auction Estimate
$3,000,000 - $5,000,000 USD
Provenance History
Various versions exist in major collections including the National Gallery of Art (Washington D.C.) and others via the collections of Andries Bonger and early modernist patrons.
Art Historical Significance
A masterpiece of the Symbolist movement, representing Redon's transition from his 'Noirs' (charcoal works) to his 'color period.' It illustrates the subjective, psychological exploration of literature common in Fin de Siècle art.
Notable Features
The juxtaposition of the highly detailed profile with the 'monstrous' or abstract nature of the flowers is a hallmark of Redon's specific brand of Symbolism.
Condition Issues
Potential light sensitivity (common for pastels), minor foxing on paper support, and possible fading of fugitive organic pigments if exposed to UV.
Conservation Recommendations
Glass-fronted framing with UV protection, archival acid-free mounting, and strict climate control (50% RH). Minimize light exposure to below 50 lux.