Te Atua (The Gods) Small Plate [recto]

in or after 1895

Paul Gauguin

Associated Names
Paul Gauguin

Artist, French, 1848 - 1903

The image displays a collection of sinuous lines and curved shapes assembled in a rectangular composition with an arch at the top. This abstract depiction showcases a variety of elements that suggest familiar objects. At the top, a curving form resembles a stylized face with elongated features, while below, flowing lines mimic the appearance of serpentine figures or aquatic creatures. Flanking the central section are two human-like shapes reminiscent of classical sculptures, one on each side, which appear to be enclosed in a space akin to a framed relief. The intricate layering of shapes is punctuated by text and smaller circular elements.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    woodcut in black on very thin Japan paper, mounted face down

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    image: 24.1 x 22.9 cm (9 1/2 x 9 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.3.4608.a

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Mongan et al. 1988, no. 53, State ii/ii (Ba)

Associated Artworks

This drawing depicts abstract human-like figures and elements. It shows a central figure lying down with striking black lines and contrasts. There are other shapes and outlines surrounding the figure, blending into a textured background. The use of space and lines creates movement and interaction between the elements, giving the drawing an eerie atmosphere. Sections are divided with arcs and lines, creating distinct yet connected sections within the composition.

Te Atua (The Gods) Small Plate [verso]

Paul Gauguin

1895

Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1950

  • Gauguin in Tahiti, Minneapolis Institute of Arts, 1950.

1977

  • Paper in Prints, National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, 1977, no. 62 or 63.

1988

  • The Art of Paul Gauguin, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., 1988, no. 232a.

Bibliography

1927

  • Guérin, Marcel. L'Oeuvre gravé de Gauguin. 2 vols. Paris: H. Floury, 1927.

1988

  • Mongan, Elizabeth, Eberhard W. Kornfeld, and Harold Joachim. Paul Gauguin: Catalogue Raisonne of his Prints. Berne: Galerie Kornfeld, 1988.

  • Bretell, Richard R. The Art of Paul Gauguin. Exh. cat. National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.; Art Institute of Chicago; Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais, Paris. Washington, D.C., 1988: no. 232a.

Wikidata ID

Q64960958

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