Group of Human Forms; A Man Seated [recto]

1884-1888

Paul Gauguin

Associated Names
Paul Gauguin
Artist, French, 1848 - 1903
The image shows abstract, curving black lines forming shapes resembling figures and landscapes. Two vertical lines on the left suggest a standing figure, while adjacent curved lines resemble draped fabric. Wavy lines on the right create movement resembling hills or waves, and intersecting lines suggest objects like trees or architectural elements. The drawing provides hints of people and nature interacting with surroundings.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    crayon on wove paper

  • Credit Line

    The Armand Hammer Collection

  • Dimensions

    overall: 16.9 x 22.6 cm (6 5/8 x 8 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1991.217.53.a

  • Series Title

    Breton Sketchbook, No. 16

Associated Artworks

The image consists of two panels with minimalist line drawings. The left panel shows figures from the shoulders up in abstract detail, with simple indications of clothing and surroundings. The right panel includes figures from the waist up, with more defined outlines. One figure has a beard and a brimmed hat, and another is shown wearing a coat with buttons. Various hat forms and simplified profiles are also included in the sketches. The background of both panels is blank.

Figure Studies; Studies of Soldiers [verso]

Paul Gauguin
1884

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Henri Mahaut, Cherbourg, purchased before World War I; Private Collection, USA; Armand Hammer Collection, Los Angeles, 1967; gift to NGA 1991

Associated Names

Inscriptions

lower left on black crayon: feu-

Wikidata ID

Q64619002

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