Was kept with Redon till his death in July 1916. After that, it was owned by many collectors and lastly archived by Alexander M. Bing and entered the Metropolitan Museum in 1959 after his death.
This 20th century oil on canvas painting is made by Odilon Redon in 1914, as part of his gradual shift from charcoal to colorful paintings. He started his first Pandora painting in 1910 and this is the final masterpiece made in 1914. Redon, himself as an artist is transformative and some critics say his use of colours in his artwork reflect his mental state of happiness. From mythology we can see that Pandora is the first woman created by Zeus, and given a precious box as a gift, not to be opened. But pandora's curiosity led to open the box and hence she released all evil who will plague humanity and this bringing an end to Idyllic Golden Age. Redon being a prime example of Symbolist movement in the mythological painting, we see Pandora here in a dreamlike environment, nude, innocent, surrounded by bright vivid flowers as if in a biblical Eve in the Garden of Eden. The painting beautifully shows her in a soft, vulnerable manner. She holds the box close to her bosom, showing her temptation to open the box and Redon just captured the moment before evil unleashed in a Paradise. Redon focuses more on the internal world carrying emotional and symbolic resonance of the myth of Pandora. However, some critics say, it is a misogynistic take if patriarchy could speak through Pandora, as the source of all evil. The painting carries less precision and more emotive impact which shows Redon's approach to Symbolism and his deep intentions behind a painting.
To me, this painting is about the moment before a life-changing decision. Pandora is shown holding the box gently, which makes her seem curious rather than guilty. The bright flowers and peaceful surroundings create a contrast with the danger hidden inside the box, suggesting that appearances can be deceptive. I also think Redon wanted to focus more on Pandora's emotions than on the myth itself. She looks innocent and vulnerable, making viewers question whether curiosity should really be blamed for humanity's suffering. Instead of simply portraying Pandora as the cause of evil, the painting encourages us to think about human nature, temptation, and the consequences of our choices. Overall, I see this artwork as a reflection on curiosity, innocence, and the difficult decisions that can change everything.
