Where can I see Five Studies of Soldiers and a Woman's Face; Two Figures [recto]?

Five Studies of Soldiers and a Woman's Face; Two Figures [recto] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Five Studies of Soldiers and a Woman's Face; Two Figures [recto]?

Five Studies of Soldiers and a Woman's Face; Two Figures [recto] is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Five Studies of Soldiers and a Woman's Face; Two Figures [recto]

Five Studies of Soldiers and a Woman's Face; Two Figures [recto] is a crayon 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 drawing, created in 1886 by Paul Gauguin, is a crayon work on wove paper, characteristic of the artist's experimental approach.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing features five studies of soldiers and a woman's face, as well as two additional figures on the reverse. The loose, rapid sketches suggest a focus on capturing gesture and expression rather than detailed representation.

Technique & Style

Gauguin's use of crayon on wove paper results in a spontaneous, sketchy quality, with rough lines and simplified forms. This approach reflects his departure from Impressionist techniques and his exploration of a more personal, expressive style.

History & Provenance

The drawing is a product of Gauguin's work in the late 19th century, a period marked by his growing involvement with Post-Impressionist and Symbolist movements.

Artist & collection

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.