The artwork titled “Madame Roulin” was created by artist Paul Gauguin in 1888, in Arles-sur-tech, France. This portrait is executed in oil on canvas, measuring 51 x 64 cm. Gauguin’s piece is an example of the Cloisonnism art movement and is housed at the Saint Louis Art Museum in St. Louis, Missouri, United States.
The artwork depicts a seated woman who is portrayed with a somewhat solemn expression on her face and an intent gaze. The painting is characteristic of Gauguin’s Cloisonnism style, with bold outlines and areas of flat, vivid color. This style is influenced by stained glass and Japanese prints, which is evident in the distinct separation of colors and the use of flat planes to convey form.
The woman is featured against a backdrop of warm and contrasting colors, displaying a strong sense of geometry in the composition. Her clothing is rendered in dark green hues, while the background consists of vibrant oranges, reds, and greens. Gauguin’s use of color and form brings about a strong sense of character and place, inviting speculation about the subject’s thoughts and emotions. The careful attention to the decorative elements and the stylization of the figure highlight both the influence of Post-Impressionism and the artist’s unique interpretation of his subject.
