Wayside Shrine in Brittany (Le calvaire Breton)

Paul Gauguin

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a group of mythical and animal figures in a pastoral setting. The drawing is done in a style reminiscent of traditional woodcuts, utilizing strong contrast with black ink on a light background. On the left side, there are several humanoid figures with stylized facial features, who appear to be observing or participating in a scene with animals. In the center and to the right, a prominent bull, goats, and other creatures are depicted, suggesting a procession or gathering. The composition is dense with overlapping forms, and the lines used are bold and expressive, lending a dramatic aesthetic to the scene. The artwork combines elements of folklore with natural imagery to create a visually rich tableau.