During his second stay in Tahiti in 1897–1898, Paul Gauguin (1848–1903) embarked on the creation of his largest masterpiece, a frieze spanning nearly four meters. The title of this work, without question marks, is inscribed in the top left corner of the canvas in a yellow background. This frieze is a series of existential questions that resonate in harmony with the motifs that compose it. See more
The elements of this work are diverse and intriguing: a newborn, a very old woman curled up on herself, young and languid bodies, a monochrome sculpture, a few animals, and lush green and blue vegetation. All these elements interact and invite us to explore their meaning, creating a kind of visual puzzle. Despite this wealth of expressive elements, the overall composition resists any linear narrative. To this day, this frieze remains an enigma to art historians.
Through his desire to paint this monumental work, Gauguin has bequeathed to us a complex and captivating artistic testament of his time in Tahiti. His existential questions, his fascination with nature, and human diversity intertwine in this mysterious creation, inviting us to reflect and ponder the many facets of life and art.
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