Who painted Head of a Cow [recto]?

Head of a Cow [recto] was painted by Paul Gauguin in 1886.

Where can I see Head of a Cow [recto]?

Head of a Cow [recto] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Head of a Cow [recto]?

Head of a Cow [recto] is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Head of a Cow [recto]

Paul Gauguin , 1886

Head of a Cow [recto] 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.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1886, *Head of a Cow* is a graphite drawing on wove paper by French artist Paul Gauguin, a key figure in Post-Impressionism and Symbolism.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing features two loose, quick sketches: a cow’s head and a hand grasping a small, undefined object. The emphasis is on capturing the essence of forms rather than precise detail.

Technique & Style

Characterized by light, shaky lines and a focus on rough shapes, the piece exemplifies Gauguin’s experimental approach. The plain background and faint strokes contribute to an unfinished, spontaneous feel.

History & Provenance

While specific provenance details are not provided, the work is attributed to Gauguin’s 1886 output, a period marked by his development of Synthetist principles.

Context

Unlike Realist works that used simple forms for narrative clarity, Gauguin’s sketch, with its loose technique, aligns more closely with the expressive and experimental nature of Post-Impressionism.

Legacy

This sketch likely served as preparatory work for larger projects, illustrating Gauguin’s process of exploring and refining his artistic ideas through quick, expressive drawings.

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.