"When Will You Marry?" is one of Paul Gauguin's most famous works, created in 1892 during his stay in Tahiti. This oil painting on canvas measures 101 cm by 77 cm and is currently displayed at the Art Institute of Chicago.
The artwork features two young Tahitian women sitting in a lush landscape of tropical vegetation. The color palette is rich with shades of green, blue, and pink, creating an exotic and vibrant atmosphere. See more
Both women are dressed in traditional attire with floral patterns.
The focal point of the composition is the question "Quand te maries-tu?" (When will you marry?) written in uppercase letters in French. This question creates an atmosphere of mystery and anticipation, evoking Tahitian customs and traditions where marriage held significant cultural importance.
The expressions of the two women appear melancholic and contemplative, as if pondering the posed question. The lush nature surrounding them emphasizes the contrast between the simplicity of Tahitian life and the complexity of human inquiries.
"When Will You Marry?" is a work that invites reflection on Tahitian culture, interpersonal relationships, and traditional values. It showcases Gauguin's interest in exotic subjects and existential questions.