The artwork “Martinique Landscape” is an oil on canvas painting created by Paul Gauguin in 1887, embodying the Post-Impressionism art movement. This landscape genre painting measures 88.5 by 115 centimeters and is presently housed in the Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh, UK. It reflects Gauguin’s early exploration into the vibrant world of exotic landscapes.
The artwork presents a dynamic and colorful vision of the tropical terrain of Martinique. In the foreground, a red, earthen path winds through lush vegetation and trees exhibiting a range of green, yellow, and orange hues, indicative of Gauguin’s bold color choices that would become a hallmark of his later work. The sky, filled with streaks of light yellow, suggests a warm, humid climate, possibly at dawn or dusk. One can observe the stark contrast between the tropical flora and the distant, cooler tones of the mountainous background, which adds depth to the painting. Gauguin’s brushwork is evident in the textured application of paint, particularly in the treatment of foliage and the sky, showcasing his departure from realism towards a more abstract and symbolist approach in capturing the essence of the scenery. The painting evokes an immersive atmosphere, taking the viewer into the heart of an untamed landscape that is both exotic and serene.
