Memory of Meijer de Haan 1896 - 1897

Paul Gauguin created this woodcut print, "Memory of Meijer de Haan," using stark contrasts of black ink on a light ground. The composition is dominated by three figures rendered with bold, simplified lines that evoke a sense of primal expressiveness. The foreground figure's mask-like face startles us with its exaggerated features and intense gaze, which might suggest the artist’s exploration of psychological depth through distortion. Behind, two more figures add to the enigmatic narrative. Gauguin departs from traditional representation, embracing a flattened perspective. The rough texture and visible wood grain emphasize the materiality of the print, reminding us of the artist’s process. Gauguin's woodcut employs signs and visual codes to destabilize conventional portraiture, challenging viewers to engage with the emotional and symbolic content. The print stands as a testament to the artist’s innovative approach, using formal elements to convey complex ideas about memory and representation.