Portrait of Simone Fayet
Odilon Redon (1840 – 1916)
Explore the enigmatic world of Odilon Redon (1840-1916), a French Symbolist known for his haunting ‘noirs,’ dreamlike visions, and influence on Surrealism.
The Portrait of Simone Fayet is a captivating painting created by the renowned artist Odilon Redon in 1907. This stunning piece is a testament to Redon's mastery of the Symbolism movement, which sought to express the inner world of emotions and subconscious thoughts. The painting is a beautiful example of Redon's use of pastel, a medium that he often employed to create delicate and dreamlike effects.
To learn more about the Symbolism movement and its key artists, including Odilon Redon, visit Symbolism on ArtsDot.com. The museum collection of the Musée d'Orsay also features an extensive collection of Symbolist works, including those by Redon.
Composition and Symbolism
The composition of the painting is characterized by a sense of intimacy and quiet contemplation. The subject, Simone Fayet, is depicted holding a doll in her arms, gazing directly at the viewer with a serious expression. The doll, which appears to be a baby doll, adds a sense of innocence and vulnerability to the painting. The background of the painting is subdued, with two figures visible on either side of the subject, adding a sense of depth and mystery to the composition. Key Features of the painting include:- The use of pastel to create a soft, dreamlike effect
- The intimate and contemplative composition
- The symbolism of the doll, which adds a sense of innocence and vulnerability
To learn more about the Symbolism movement and its key artists, including Odilon Redon, visit Symbolism on ArtsDot.com. The museum collection of the Musée d'Orsay also features an extensive collection of Symbolist works, including those by Redon.
About this artwork
- Title: Portrait of Simone Fayet
- Artist: Odilon Redon
- Year: 1907
- Original dimensions: 75.0 x 40.0 cm
- Format: Portrait
- Copyright status: Public domain
- Movement: Symbolism
- Medium: Pastel
- Main color: Pink
- Keywords: redon pastel portrait , contemplative portrait , symbolism art
Quick Facts
- Artistic style: Symbolism
- Artist: Odilon Redon
- Subject or theme: Woman holding a doll
- Title: Portrait of Simone Fayet
- Medium: Pastel
- Notable elements or techniques: Use of pastel, dreamlike effect


