In Upon Awakening I Saw the Goddess of the Intelligible with Her Severe and Hard Profile, the viewer is greeted by a striking figure of a goddess. Her profile is severe and hard, suggesting strength and intellect. The color palette is rich, with deep blues and muted earth tones that create a somber atmosphere.

This setting evokes a sense of contemplation and introspection. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, showcasing Redon's signature style of blending realism with symbolic elements. The goddess's features are sharply defined, emphasizing her formidable presence. The use of light and shadow adds depth, enhancing the three-dimensional quality of the figure.

Viewers can appreciate the meticulous brushwork that characterizes Redon's technique. Odilon Redon was a prominent figure in the Symbolist movement, known for his dreamlike imagery and exploration of the subconscious. This painting reflects his interest in the relationship between the intelligible and the ineffable. An interesting fact about this work is that it was inspired by Redon's fascination with mythology and the divine.

The goddess depicted represents knowledge and enlightenment, key themes in Redon's oeuvre.