Cellule Auriculaire

Welcome, everyone! Before you is Cellule Auriculaire, a captivating print created in 1894 by the renowned artist Odilon Redon. This piece, part of the National Gallery of Art's collection, is a relatively intimate work, measuring 24.9 centimeters by 26.9 centimeters. nn Notice the dominant feature: a dark, almost black circle that immediately draws your eye. Within this circle, Redon subtly suggests a woman's profile, her features softened and blurred, almost dreamlike. The lines are gentle, avoiding sharp definition, leaving much to the viewer's imagination. You can just make out a closed eye and the curve of her cheek, her dark hair seemingly extending beyond the circular boundary. nn The background is a textured, dark gray, creating a striking contrast with the slightly lighter tones within the circle. The light itself is soft and diffused, enhancing the mysterious and ambiguous atmosphere. The overall effect is monochromatic, playing with shades of deep black and lighter grays. nn The circular shape itself is intriguing. It could be interpreted as a symbol of enclosure, a contained world, or perhaps even a cell, as the title suggests. The soft, indistinct rendering of the face contributes to the overall dreamlike and enigmatic quality of this remarkable print. Take a moment to let the piece's subtle power and mystery wash over you.