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

Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire) was painted by Paul Gauguin in 1899.

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 , 1899

Title Page for "Le Sourire" (Titre du Sourire) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin. It dates from 1899 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Paul Gauguin's 'Title Page for "Le Sourire"' is a 1899 woodcut on China paper. It serves as the title page for the publication 'Le Sourire'.

Subject & Meaning

The woodcut depicts three figures in a dimly lit room, conveying a somber mood. The title 'Le Sourire' (The Smile) is rendered in bold, irregular letters across the top, potentially contrasting with the scene's solemn atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Gauguin employed sharp lines and dark shadows to achieve a simplified, moody aesthetic. The rough texture and blocky forms emphasize the handmade nature of the woodcut, characteristic of his experimental approach to printmaking.

History & Provenance

Created in 1899, this work reflects Gauguin's exploration of wood engraving as a medium, aligning with his broader artistic experiments beyond Impressionism.

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.