Artwork

Volpini Suite: Joys of Brittany (Joies de Bretagne)

Volpini Suite:  Joys of Brittany (Joies de Bretagne), by Paul Gauguin, 1889
Volpini Suite:  Joys of Brittany (Joies de Bretagne), by Paul Gauguin, 1889

Volpini Suite: Joys of Brittany (Joies de Bretagne) is a print by the Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Volpini Suite: Joys of Brittany is a zincograph print created by Paul Gauguin in 1889. It is part of a series of experimental prints that showcase Gauguin's innovative approach to color and composition.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two women strolling together in a rural setting, accompanied by a sheep and dog. The scene captures a moment of everyday life, with the women dressed in traditional attire. The image conveys a sense of simplicity and tranquility.

Technique & Style

The zincograph print is characterized by loose, expressive lines and a bold use of color. Gauguin's technique gives the image a rough, sketchy quality, reflecting his departure from Impressionist naturalism and his association with Post-Impressionism and Symbolism.

History & Provenance

The print was produced for an exhibition at the Café des Arts in Paris, where Gauguin showcased his experimental works alongside other artists. The series was created during Gauguin's time in Pont-Aven, Brittany, a period that influenced his innovative approach to art.

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: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.