The artwork titled “Buddha” by Odilon Redon was created around 1906. Rendered in pastel on paper, this piece is associated with the Symbolism movement and falls within the genre of religious painting. Currently, the artwork is housed in the Kröller-Müller Museum located in Otterlo, Netherlands.
The representation of the Buddha in the artwork is imbued with a sense of tranquility and profound spirituality. The figure is depicted with closed eyes and a serene expression, embodying the essence of meditation and enlightenment—a thematic cornerstone of the Buddhist faith. Redon’s use of pastel has granted the work a soft yet vibrant texture, particularly notable in the luminous halo that encircles the Buddha’s head, a traditional symbol of the divine wisdom the figure embodies. The background is suffused with a warm, glowing ambiance which further enhances the mystical experience portrayed.
Redon’s expertise in Symbolism is evident in his approach to the subject; he transcends literal interpretation and invites viewers to a contemplative engagement with the spiritual theme. The artwork does not merely represent the Buddha but rather seems to convey the inner experience of transcendence and peace that the Buddha symbolizes.
