Still life with mangoes and hibiscus 1887

Paul Gauguin created this still life with mangoes and hibiscus with oil paint, showcasing his distinctive post-impressionist style. The composition centers on a tabletop arrangement, where Gauguin emphasizes the raw textures of the mangoes and the lushness of the hibiscus through thick brushstrokes. The interplay between the earthy hues of the fruit and the vibrant reds of the flower creates a visual tension that commands our attention. Gauguin rejects traditional illusionism, instead flattening the picture plane. This aligns with the broader artistic movements of the late 19th century that sought to challenge academic conventions and explore subjective experience. Gauguin's deliberate use of color and form destabilizes conventional still life painting. It invites viewers to reconsider their perceptions of reality and representation in art. The materiality of the paint itself becomes a crucial element, emphasizing the act of creation and the artist's subjective interpretation of the world.