Hantise (Obsession) 1894

Odilon Redon created "Hantise" or "Obsession" at a time when Symbolism and early Surrealism were questioning the certainties of rational thought. Here, Redon delves into the enigmatic depths of the human psyche. We see a woman in profile, draped in a gown, seemingly unaware of the unsettling visages surrounding her. These ghostly figures suggest the anxieties and obsessions lurking beneath the surface of outward appearances, and perhaps also societal expectations for women. Redon once said that his drawings "inspire, they are not to be defined." The ghostly figures floating around the woman’s head reference how women are so often haunted by external standards. The artist isn't telling us what to think, but rather inviting us to feel the weight of these intangible forces. With "Hantise," Redon captures the disquieting sensation of being haunted by one’s own thoughts, fears, and the gaze of others. It's a deeply personal work that resonates with anyone who has felt the weight of silent obsessions.