Ophelia (Ophélie)
Painting on paper or board • Odilon Redon (French, 1840–1916)
Style & Movement
Symbolism
Medium & Technique
Pastel on paper, likely mounted to board; employing soft blending, stippling, and layered pigment to create a dreamlike atmosphere.
Creation Period
Circa 1900-1905
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 50 x 67 cm (19.7 x 26.4 in); landscape format.
Subject Description
A profile view of Shakespeare's Ophelia in the bottom right corner, drifting through water or a mystical landscape. The composition is dominated by a vibrant cluster of imaginary wildflowers, blue butterflies, and a luminescent blue aura, representing her inner world and the fusion of nature with human consciousness.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; slight fading characteristic of light-sensitive pastel pigments, with some softening of details in background areas.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500,000 - $3,500,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,200,000 - $2,500,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely originated from a Parisian private collection; Redon's pastels were highly sought after by collectors such as Gustave Fayet and the Bonger family.
Art Historical Significance
Redon was a pioneer of Symbolism; this work represents his transition from 'Les Noirs' (charcoals) to vibrant color. His interpretation of Ophelia departs from Victorian realism to embrace mystical abstraction, influencing Surrealism and modern color theory.
Notable Features
The use of 'non-local' color, particularly the intense cobalt and ultramarine blues juxtaposed against ochre tones; the ethereal, 'ghost-like' rendering of the profile which blends into the background flora.
Condition Issues
Possible minor pigment loss or friability typical of dry media; minor yellowing of the paper substrate; potential light damage if not kept behind UV-protective glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Should be housed in a climate-controlled environment with strictly limited UV light exposure. Framing must include a spacer to prevent the pastel surface from touching the glass. Professional stabilization of loose pigments if necessary.