The Barrier
- Original dimensions
- 73 x 92.5 cm
- Museum
- Kunsthaus Zurich
- Year
- 1889
Scene depicted
The Barrier illustrates a simple yet powerful scene, where a visual injunction meets contemplation. Here, Gauguin presents us with a rustic wall, almost alive, that divides a space vibrant with colors. This painting transports the viewer into a liminal space, a boundary between the wild nature and the civilized world.
Historical context
Created in 1889, The Barrier by Paul Gauguin represents a time at the crossroads of artistic paths. Located in Zurich, this canvas is part of the post-impressionist movement, marking a break from the traditional styles of the time. The painting is currently housed at the Kunsthaus Zurich , a museum frequented by art lovers, who marvel at its impressive dimensions of 73 x 92.5 cm.
Place in the artist's career
Considered one of the highlights of his phase of experimentation with color, The Barrier marks an artistic maturity. This painting sits between his earlier works like Vision after the Sermon and those to come such as Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going? Each of these canvases testifies to an uninterrupted trajectory towards an increasing intimacy with human emotions.
Anecdote
“Beauty lies in the soul of every color we perceive.” These words from Paul Gauguin resonate like an echo of the inspiration he received during a walk in lush nature. One gentle morning, the song of birds mixed with the scent of flowers rose in the air, infusing the artist with a poignant vision that he passionately captured in this masterpiece .