Odilon Redon

Colors are bright and fresh. The sheet is laid down on board and slightly light struck. There are several tiny nicks along extremities of all edges and a 3/4 inch tear at the lower left corner. Paper's composition is made up of blue fibers. A few, very small water stains at upper left and lower right, otherwise fine.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This sumptuous Vase de fleurs exemplifies Redon's mastery with pastel while at the same time showing his ability to imbue a simple still life with a peace and spirituality that transcends time. As Barbara Larson notes, "while the naturalistic flowers in their vases may seem far from the spiritual realm, Redon often played off the primal and rudimentary against the ethereal. Frequently the vases in the still lifes are of simple stoneware or glazed ceramics. These thick, heavy vessels may suggest the material body or 'head', from which spring flowers representing thought or spiritual life" (B. Larson, As in a Dream, Odilon Redon (exhibition catalogue), Frankfurt, Schirn Kunsthalle, 2007, p. 99).

"Along with the paintings and pastels where real and imaginary flowers are harmoniously integrated, an important place must be given to these perfect masterpieces – the bouquets of spring flowers. Simply rendered, these arrangements are usually set in an abstract environment, the gray or beige paper serving as a background note. Through his signature, placed to the right of the vase, Redon creates a decorative effect similar to that found in Oriental art" (R. Bacou, Odilon Redon Pastels, New York, 1987, p. 134).