The Universe is Created (L'Univers est cree)

Paul Gauguin

National Gallery of Art

The image displays flowing lines and shapes that swirl and stretch across the canvas. The design incorporates a play of colors and forms, possibly resembling elements from nature such as rolling hills, leaves, or mountains merging with abstracted figures. A central shape is reminiscent of a creature's head or a mask with an elongated nose and intricate patterned decoration resembling a ceremonial headdress. The use of earthy colors and swirling lines conveys the fluidity of natural landscapes within a dynamic and abstract representation.