Who painted Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire)?

Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire) was painted by Paul Gauguin in 1900.

Where can I see Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire)?

Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire)?

Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire) is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire)

Paul Gauguin , 1900

Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Paul Gauguin’s woodcut titled *Title Page for “Le Sourire*” was produced in 1900 on Japanese paper. The print presents a tranquil beach scene with a seated woman and a standing man, framed by stylised foliage. The composition balances calm and contemplation, reflecting Gauguin’s interest in symbolic narratives beyond the fleeting impressions of contemporary movements.

Subject & Meaning

The central figures—a woman with long hair, serene and poised, and a man observing her with a serious demeanor—suggest a quiet interaction, perhaps alluding to themes of companionship or introspection. The surrounding flowers and leaves reinforce a natural setting, while the muted beach backdrop invites contemplation of the figures’ inner states.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut on Japan paper, the work showcases Gauguin’s mastery of printmaking, employing bold outlines and flat areas of colour typical of his post‑Impressionist vocabulary. The use of Japanese paper contributes a delicate surface that enhances the contrast between the light‑toned sand and the darker tonal accents of rock‑like shadows.

History & Provenance

Created at the turn of the twentieth century, the print forms part of Gauguin’s broader engagement with graphic media, complementing his paintings and sculptures. It was likely intended as a title page for a publication titled *Le Sourire*, aligning with the artist’s practice of integrating his visual language into literary contexts.

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.