The artwork titled “The Queen of Beauty” is a creation by artist Paul Gauguin, dating back to approximately 1896. This piece is a fine example of Gauguin’s work during his time in French Polynesia and is crafted using watercolor on paper. It is categorized under the Post-Impressionism art movement and serves as a sketch and study. Those wishing to view this piece in person can find it at the Morgan Library and Museum in New York City, NY, United States.
In this artwork, the scene depicts a reclining figure set against a rich and colorfully rendered backdrop. The figure appears languid, with an arm resting gracefully over the head, capturing the serene essence of repose. The use of watercolors imbues the piece with a luminous quality, where the pigments merge and fade with a fluid spontaneity. Surrounding the central figure, the environment is alive with an array of tropical flora, painted with a blend of both naturalistic and stylized elements, a characteristic often seen in Post-Impressionist works.
Gauguin’s style here is marked by broad, confident brush strokes and a vibrant palette, creating a harmonious composition that reflects both the local environment and the artist’s unique interpretation of it. The allure of this artwork lies in its combination of the exotic subject matter with a bold and unconventional approach to form and color, which Gauguin and his Post-Impressionist peers were well-known for during this era. This piece embodies the spirit of exploration and boundary-pushing that defines the Post-Impressionist movement and adds depth to the understanding of Gauguin’s artistic journey and legacy.
