Odilon Redon - Ophelia Among The Flowers [c.1905-08]

Odilon Redon - Ophelia Among The Flowers [c.1905-08], a photo by Gandalf's Gallery on Flickr.

This pastel is one of several compositions by Redon (1840-1916) of this subject from Shakespeare's Hamlet which date from this period. The flowers seem to be of no identifiable species, resembling lilac and strawberries, and with blue leaves interspersed with the green. The garlanded head of Ophelia is turned towards the flowers as though in contemplation of their beauty. The tropical still lifes of Gauguin may have influenced Redon in the design of this work.

[Pastel on paper, 64 x 91 cm]

Odilon Redon - Flower Clouds [c.1903]

Odilon Redon - Flower Clouds [c.1903], a photo by Gandalf's Gallery on Flickr.

In Flower Clouds, a small skiff carries two hastily sketched passengers over a calm sea or lake. The figures seem to surrender themselves to fate, huddling together away from the rudder, relinquishing control of the vessel as they observe the spectacular effects of the setting sun against the sky. Vivid reflections of the "flower clouds" in the water below create a visual echo, blurring the boundary between illusionistic representation and abstract patterning. Redon used similar strategies in the decorative panels, screens, and tapestries that he started making at around this same time.

[Pastel, 44.5 x 54.2 cm]