Joan of Arc
- Original dimensions
- 62.9 x 134 cm
- Museum
- Van Gogh Museum
- Year
- 1889
Scene depicted
This painting highlights the heroic figure of Joan of Arc, standing boldly, surrounded by a vibrant palette that transcends the simple portrait. Gauguin, in true pictorial poems, illustrates the duality between the sacred and the profane, inviting the viewer to feel Joan's deep faith.
Historical context
Created in 1889, within the historical framework of the post-impressionist movement, this painting embodies the bravery and faith of Joan of Arc. Located at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, this canvas reflects a time when art sought to express complex and profound emotions.
Place in the artist's career
Joan of Arc is situated at a pivotal moment in Gauguin's career, as he deeply engages in spiritual and symbolic exploration. Alongside other paintings like “The Vision After the Sermon” and “Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?”, one perceives the stylistic maturation of the artist through this work .
Anecdote
“Light reveals souls,” Gauguin said, inspired by a spring morning in Pont-Aven. Faced with vibrant nature, he captured the essence of Joan, infusing his canvas with the strength of her exceptional determination. This quote summarizes the emotional intensity of his masterpiece .