The artwork entitled “Meditation” by the artist Odilon Redon is a pastel on paper, rooted in the Symbolism art movement. Measuring 46.5 x 55.5 cm, it is a genre painting and is currently held within a private collection. This piece is representative of Redon’s fascination with the ethereal and the exploration of the inner psyche through the abstract and symbolic representation of subjects.
The artwork presents a juxtaposition of a floral arrangement and a contemplative profile of a figure. The bouquet of flowers, vividly depicted with a dynamic array of colors, bursts from a deep blue vase, denoting energy and life. To the right, a serene, almost ghostly profile of a human face appears in gentle hues, suggesting introspection or spiritual reflection. The background is dominated by a monochromatic blue that envelops the scene, highlighting the imaginative quality inherent in Redon’s symbolic approach. This artwork evokes emotion and thought, inviting viewers to ponder the unseen realms of the mind and spirit. The subtle gradation of colors and the softness of the pastel medium enhance the dreamlike atmosphere, bringing forth a sense of calmness and meditation.