Clearing II
- Original dimensions
- 46 x 38 cm
- Museum
- Not specified
- Year
- 1874
Scene depicted
The painting “Clearing II - Paul Gauguin ” depicts a bucolic scene where the tranquility of nature unites with the melancholy of time passing. The clearing, a green haven, is animated by plays of light, creating a vibrant tableau of life and serenity. The foliage dances under the caress of the wind, while luminous reflections dance on natural surfaces, evoking a feeling of deep peace.
Historical context
Created in 1874, at the heart of the artistic effervescence of the late 19th century, this painting is part of the post-impressionist movement, emerging in the full light of Pont-Aven, in Brittany. At that time, Paul Gauguin explores the subtleties of color and forms, standing out from academic conventions. Although the work is not currently housed in a specific museum, its echo endures. The canvas , measuring 46 x 38 cm, captures the promise of simple moments, revealing a peaceful atmosphere.
Place in the artist's career
“Clearing II” represents a key stage in Gauguin's artistic journey, marking his quest for new aesthetics, far from the norms of his time. At this period, he juxtaposes this canvas with works such as “Vision after the sermon” and “La Belle Angèle,” revealing an evolution marked by a bold use of color and a desire to express deep emotions.
Anecdote
“Nature is my deepest inspiration,” Gauguin might have said, as he painted this canvas on a morning in April. In a clearing bathed in soft light, he encounters shadows and lights intertwining, resonating with his artist's soul. The connection between nature and painting becomes palpable, infusing this pictorial work with a powerful force.