Odilon Redon, born Bertrand Redon, was a seminal French Symbolist artist renowned for his unique blend of imagination and mystique. His early career was marked by a distinct focus on charcoal and lithography, with his compelling noirs earning him critical acclaim, particularly after being featured in the 1884 novel ">À rebours (Against Nature) by Joris-Karl Huysmans.

Redon's artistic trajectory took a significant turn in the 1890s when he embraced pastels and oils, mediums that would eventually become his preferred forms of expression. The influence of Hindu and Buddhist religion and culture became increasingly evident in his works during this period. Renowned for his dreamy and often abstract paintings, particularly those from the early 20th century, Redon's style was significantly inspired by Japanese art. His visionary creations have positioned him as a precursor to the Surrealism movement.