Barbarian Poems
1896
Gauguin titled this fiery 1896 masterpiece 'Barbaric Poems' to challenge European ideas of civilization, painting it during his second trip to the South Pacific. A large, contemplative figure dominates the canvas, her hand resting on her chest in a gesture of quiet strength, while a small, wide-eyed idol sits beside her like a silent guardian. The blazing red and orange background clashes with the cool blue arch behind her, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that feels more like a myth than a simple portrait. Gauguin was obsessed with escaping 'civilized' Europe to find something raw and primal, and this painting perfectly captures his romanticized vision of island life.
- Technique
- Oil on canvas
- Material
- Canvas
Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston