The artwork, “Woman with a Yellow Bodice,” is a creation of Odilon Redon dating back to approximately 1899. It is crafted using pastel on paper and the piece is a part of the Symbolism art movement. Measuring 66 by 50 centimeters, this portrait is currently housed at the Kröller-Müller Museum located in Otterlo, Netherlands.
The artwork presents a half-length portrait of a woman in a contemplative state, her gaze seemingly directed outwards, beyond the viewer. The yellow bodice she wears stands out vibrantly against the more subdued background, drawing attention to her figure. Her attire is further adorned with a patterned sleeve that demonstrates an intricate floral design, which adds texture and visual interest to the piece. Above her brow, nestled within her hair, are what appear to be delicate blue flowers, adding a touch of natural beauty and subtlety to the composition.
Odilon Redon, the artist, has employed his signature use of soft pastel hues to imbue the artwork with a dreamlike quality that is characteristic of the Symbolism movement. The gentle rendering of the subject’s features and the hazy blending of colors contributes to an ethereal atmosphere. The artwork evokes introspection, with its subject’s pensiveness suggesting inner depth and perhaps a narrative beyond what is seen. It represents an exploration of the emotive and mystical themes that Symbolists sought to depict, favoring the conveyance of emotion and idea over realistic representation.
