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The Rider, by Paul Gauguin, gouache, 1902

The Rider

Paul Gauguin

1902

gouache

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

The Rider is a 1902 gouache by Paul Gauguin, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Paul Gauguin
When & what style?
1902
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This painting depicts a person riding a horse, with the rider's back to the viewer. The horse is positioned in the center of the composition, facing right. The rider wears a long-sleeved shirt and pants, and their head is covered by a hood or hat. The background is a mix of earthy tones, with hints of blue and purple. The rider's posture suggests a sense of movement, as if they are in mid-gallop. The horse's legs are bent, and its head is lowered, giving the impression of speed and energy. The use of gouache monotype touched with gum or varnish on laid paper creates a sense of texture and depth in the painting. If you're interested in learning more about this technique, you can explore the art of gouache.

About the artist

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.

See the richer artist page

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