Donkey by lane 1885

Paul Gauguin painted 'Donkey by Lane' with oil on canvas, although the exact date is unknown. It depicts a humble scene, a donkey grazing by a path, but it speaks volumes about Gauguin's evolving artistic and social vision. Made in France during a time of rapid industrialization, Gauguin, like many artists, grew disillusioned with urban life and yearned for a simpler, more 'authentic' existence. His focus on rural scenes, like this one, reflects a broader cultural trend of romanticizing the countryside as an escape from the perceived corruption of modern society. Notice how Gauguin uses a broken brushstroke technique to build up texture, and emphasize the 'naturalness' of the scene. To fully understand Gauguin's work, we need to delve into the art criticism of the time, exhibition records, and his personal letters. By examining these sources, we can appreciate how Gauguin's art both reflected and challenged the values of his era.