The dreaming (1892; French Polynesia) by Paul Gauguin

The dreaming - Paul Gauguin - 1892; French Polynesia

Artwork Information

TitleThe dreaming
ArtistPaul Gauguin
Date1892; French Polynesia
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions35.2 x 64.4 cm
Art MovementCloisonnism
Current LocationPrivate Collection

About The dreaming

“The Dreaming” is an artwork completed by Paul Gauguin in 1892 during his time in French Polynesia. This piece is rendered in oil on canvas and is a prime example of the Cloisonnism art movement. Measuring 35.2 x 64.4 cm, this genre painting is currently housed within a private collection.

The artwork depicts a figure lying in repose, enveloped in a richly colored cloak with eye-like motifs—a recurrent symbol in Gauguin’s work that may suggest a spiritual or protective function. The figure’s pose is relaxed, conveying a sense of deep sleep or contemplation. The use of flat planes of color, characteristic of Cloisonnism, gives the artwork a dream-like, almost otherworldly quality. Gauguin’s signature is noticeable in the lower right corner of the canvas, adding a personal touch to the painting. The color palette is muted yet expressive, with a backdrop that suggests a twilight or evening scene, possibly hinting at the time when a person transitions from wakefulness to dreams.

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