Scribbles; Two Shapes [verso]

Scribbles; Two Shapes [verso] by Paul Gauguin is an expressive and preparatory drawing executed in crayon on wove paper, dating from the pivotal period of 1884 to 1888. Classified as a Drawing, this piece offers an intimate look into the developmental process of the French Post-Impressionist master during his critical shift away from Impressionism. The designation "[verso]" confirms that this composition occupies the reverse side of another sheet, characteristic of rapid studies or exploratory mark-making that preceded more finished works.

Unlike the highly structured compositions Gauguin would produce in oil, the surface of Scribbles; Two Shapes [verso] retains a vigorous, unconstrained energy. The composition features foundational marks and the delineation of two abstract or preliminary shapes, suggesting rudimentary figure studies or perhaps exercises in exploring volume and form. The use of crayon allowed Gauguin to apply bold, linear strokes, enabling him to capture movement and mass quickly before committing to a final design.

This study places the artist squarely within the aesthetic revolution occurring in France during the late 19th century, falling precisely within the period of 1876 to 1900. During this time, Gauguin began rejecting strict academic realism in favor of expressive individualism, leading toward his development of Synthetism. This drawing demonstrates his burgeoning interest in the simplification of forms and the use of outlines to define figures, essential elements that would characterize his mature style.

Currently residing in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, this drawing provides researchers with an unvarnished view of the artist’s mind at work. The study is invaluable for understanding the transition in Gauguin’s career. As a significant Drawing from the French cultural output of the era, the work’s importance extends beyond its preliminary nature. While original prints of this study are rare, the accessibility afforded through public domain initiatives ensures that high-resolution reproductions of such foundational works remain available for scholarly review and appreciation.