Bust of a Young Breton Woman (Possibly Marie Lagadu)

The drawing Bust of a Young Breton Woman (Possibly Marie Lagadu) by Paul Gauguin French, 1848-1903, represents a key phase in the artist’s exploration of life in rural France prior to his turn toward Symbolism and Synthetism. Executed between 1881 and 1892, the work utilizes black fabricated chalk applied skillfully to ivory laid paper, demonstrating the density and textural subtlety achievable through this concentrated medium. The technique emphasizes sharp contrasts and volumetric form, capturing the inherent structure of the subject.

Gauguin’s frequent, foundational visits to Brittany, particularly the artistic colony at Pont-Aven, profoundly influenced his subject matter during this decade. While the identification is not definitive, the sitter is often believed to be Marie Lagadu, one of the local models Gauguin sketched repeatedly. This piece is characteristic of the artist’s early focus on portraying the perceived dignity and traditional culture of the Breton people, often highlighting their distinctive regional clothing and headdress.

This significant drawing is maintained in the extensive collection of works on paper at the Art Institute of Chicago, providing essential context regarding the development of Gauguin’s draftsmanship during this formative period. As a celebrated example of his engagement with European folklore before his departure for the South Pacific, the piece documents his mastery of rendering character. High-quality prints of this artwork are frequently utilized by scholars, making this vital drawing accessible through public domain collections.