Initiation to Study 1905

"Initiation to Study" (1905) by Odilon Redon depicts two women in a fantastical, dreamlike setting. The figure in the white robe holds a scroll, perhaps symbolizing the knowledge to be learned. The other woman, clothed in blue and red, appears to guide her towards a mysterious portal. Redon's use of soft, muted tones, along with the figures' ethereal qualities, creates a sense of mystery and wonder. This artwork is a prime example of Redon's signature style, known as "symbolism", which aimed to evoke emotions and ideas through visual imagery rather than literal representation.