The artwork titled “Meyer de Haan” is a creation by the renowned artist Paul Gauguin, dated 1889. This portrait, rendered in oil on wood, reflects the Cloisonnism movement, with the painting measuring 80 by 52.5 cm. Gauguin executed this work in France, and it is currently housed in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork presents a striking and intimate portrait of a man, presumed to be Meyer de Haan, engrossed in contemplation. Characteristic of Gauguin’s style, the bold use of color and outlined forms are evident. The subject is captured with a penetrating gaze, his chin resting upon his hand in a classic pose of reflection. The foreground is dominated by a table, on which sits a vibrant yellow bowl filled with fruit, a book with the title barely discernible, and a large, bright yellow lamp. The bold red of the subject’s garment draws the eye, contrasting with the more subdued tones of the background and the table elements. The stark use of outlines and the flat planes of color are indicative of the Cloisonnism trend in post-Impressionist painting, wherein color is separated by dark contours, much in the manner of medieval enameling techniques. The manner in which Gauguin has captured the likeness and mood, employing a minimal yet expressive palette, underscores the emotional and introspective quality of the work.
