The artwork titled “Woman with Veil” was created by the artist Odilon Redon in the period circa 1895 to 1899. The portrait is executed in pastel on paper and is an exemplary piece of the Symbolism art movement. It is preserved in the Kröller-Müller Museum located in Otterlo, Netherlands. This work constitutes a notable part of Redon’s oeuvre, demonstrating his unique approach to the symbolic representation of figures.
The composition showcases a female figure with a subtly rendered face, characterized by a hint of melancholy or introspection. Her visage is partly concealed by a transparent veil that adds a layer of mystery and enhances the symbolic nature of the piece. The background employs a warm, reddish hue that provides a vibrant contrast to the more delicate colors of the figure’s attire and the veil. Redon’s use of pastels allows for soft textures and a dreamlike quality that are typical of his works within Symbolism, an art movement that prioritized personal and imaginative expression over realistic representation. The overall effect of the artwork is one of serenity mixed with an enigmatic presence, inviting viewers into a contemplative engagement with the work.
