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Te Atua (The Gods) Small Plate

Paul Gauguin

National Gallery of Art

The image consists of various shapes and lines forming figures and patterns. At the top is an arch-like shape enclosing a stylized face with flowing hair. Below, figures interact in a scene with curved lines creating a sense of movement. Two human-like figures are on either side, while abstract animal forms resembling a fowl or rooster are in the center. Swirling lines at the bottom suggest water or snakes, adding to the intricate and symbolic nature of the image.

Artwork Details

Date
1898-1899
Medium
two laminated woodcuts on Japanese paper, double-mounted on wove paper
Dimensions
4030 × 4415 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette