Paul Gauguin -Автопортрет На Голгофе Paul Gauguin (1848-1903)

The composition presents a figure positioned centrally within the frame, gazing towards the viewer with a direct and somewhat melancholic expression. The individuals face is rendered in muted greens and browns, suggesting a deliberate avoidance of idealized beauty; instead, an emphasis on psychological depth prevails. A crown of flowers adorns his head – predominantly white blossoms punctuated by touches of red – a detail that introduces a layer of symbolic complexity. These floral elements appear both naturalistic and somewhat flattened, contributing to the overall sense of stylized representation.
To the right, a profile portrait is visible, framed within an elongated vertical space. This secondary figure, also depicted with a somber countenance, wears what appears to be a red cap or head covering. The contrast between the frontal pose of the primary subject and the profile view of the second creates a visual dialogue, hinting at duality or perhaps different facets of identity.
The background is dominated by an ochre-yellow hue, which contributes to the painting’s overall warmth while also creating a sense of confinement. A handwritten inscription in the lower right corner reads les misérables, followed by what appears to be a signature and date. This textual element immediately establishes a connection to Victor Hugos novel, suggesting that the work might explore themes of suffering, marginalization, or social injustice.
The flowers, beyond their aesthetic appeal, could symbolize innocence, fragility, or even martyrdom – a possible allusion to Christ’s crown of thorns. The combination of self-portraiture and literary reference suggests a deeply personal exploration of empathy and shared human experience. The artist seems to be positioning himself within the narrative of societal hardship, perhaps identifying with those on the fringes of society.
The flattened perspective and simplified forms are characteristic of a style that prioritizes emotional resonance over realistic depiction. This approach allows for a more immediate connection between the viewer and the subjects inner state, fostering a sense of introspection and shared vulnerability.