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Artwork

A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso]

Paul Gauguin , 1886

A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso], by Paul Gauguin, graphite, 1886
A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso], by Paul Gauguin, graphite, 1886

A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso] is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin. It dates from 1886 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in graphite: au nedu avec / corde / Goude

About this work

Overview

This drawing on wove paper, created by Paul Gauguin in 1886, showcases the artist's experimental approach to graphite. The work is a double-sided sketch featuring disparate elements and loose, expressive lines.

Subject & Meaning

The recto side contains a caricature and various forms, while the verso features a man in profile, a winged creature, and a boy's face. Gauguin's annotations, such as 'armée en arme', suggest a playful or spontaneous intent behind the sketches.

Technique & Style

Gauguin's use of graphite on wove paper reveals his emphasis on expressive line work and quick gestural drawings. The loose, simple strokes and varied forms demonstrate his exploration of different techniques and styles.

Context

As a Post-Impressionist and Symbolist artist, Gauguin's work often pushed beyond traditional Impressionist methods. This drawing reflects his broader engagement with various mediums, including printmaking and drawing, alongside his painting practice.

Group of Human Forms; A Man Seated [recto]
Group of Human Forms; A Man Seated [recto], Paul Gauguin

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Gauguin

Artist

Paul Gauguin

Eugène Henri Paul Gauguin (; French:; 7 June 1848 – 8 May 1903) was a French painter, sculptor, printmaker, ceramist, and writer, whose work has been primarily associated with the Post-Impressionist and Symbolist movements.

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of National Gallery of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso]?

A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso] was painted by Paul Gauguin in 1886.

Where can I see A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso]?

A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso]?

A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso] is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso]?

Museum-quality prints of A Caricature and Five Forms; A Man in Profile, a Winged Creature and a Boy [verso] are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.