Sentimental Walk
- Original dimensions
- 72 x 90 cm
- Museum
- Not specified
- Year
- 1889
Scene depicted
In this pictorial work, Gauguin captures an intimate scene where female figures stroll in a landscape bathed in light, evoking an atmosphere of tranquility and contemplation. The graceful curves of the characters and the vibrant hues reveal a warm ambiance, suggesting both human intimacy and the grandeur of the natural world. Through this composition, the viewer is invited to feel the sweet melancholy of this suspended moment.
Historical context
Created in 1889, in the heart of Brittany, this iconic canvas is part of the post-impressionist movement. It is a period when Gauguin seeks to express himself beyond simple impressions, evoking deeply rooted feelings. The painting, whose current location remains unknown, bears witness to an intense artistic heritage and a pivotal moment in the history of the arts.
Place in the artist's career
The canvas Sentimental Walk stands as a major milestone in Gauguin's career, a masterpiece that heralds his unique style. This painting fits perfectly with earlier works like Vision after the Sermon and later ones such as The Starry Night , illustrating the evolution of his pictorial approach through color and form.
Anecdote
Gauguin once stated: "Painting is a poetry that is seen instead of felt." This thought led him to immortalize a scene of poignant delicacy, whether on a gentle morning in Pont-Aven or while strolling along the calm shores of the Breton coasts. It is this quest for pure emotion that nourishes this painting , immersing the viewer in a dreamlike universe.