Artwork

Color Chart with Annotations [verso]

Color Chart with Annotations [verso], by Paul Gauguin, ink, 1886
Color Chart with Annotations [verso], by Paul Gauguin, ink, 1886

Color Chart with Annotations [verso] is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin. It dates from 1886 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1886 drawing on wove paper, executed in pen and brown ink, is a color chart annotated by Paul Gauguin. It showcases the artist's early exploration of color theory.

Subject & Meaning

The chart features a central point with radiating lines, each labeled with a color term in French, such as 'orange', 'jaune', and 'bleu'. These annotations suggest a systematic study of color, likely as a reference for Gauguin's artistic work.

Technique & Style

The drawing demonstrates Gauguin's use of pen and brown ink to create a diagrammatic representation of color relationships. The cursive handwriting and organization of the chart indicate a thoughtful and methodical approach to color theory.

Context

This work reflects Gauguin's engagement with color theory, a concern that would become central to his Post-Impressionist and Symbolist paintings. It represents an early stage in his development as an artist, prior to his more radical stylistic innovations.

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.