Te atua (The God), from the Suite of Late Wood-Block Prints

Te atua (The God), from the Suite of Late Wood-Block Prints by Paul Gauguin (French, 1848-1903), printed posthumously by Luc Guérin, captures the Symbolist master's late-career investigation into non-Western religious iconography. Executed originally in 1899, this print is a sophisticated example of the wood-block medium. The composition utilizes black and brown ink derived from two distinct blocks, yielding a rich, layered effect particularly evident on the specialized paper. This impression is made on cream Japanese paper, which features delicate cream fibrous inclusions throughout, enhancing the piece’s textured, primitive aesthetic.

While Gauguin is perhaps most renowned for his Post-Impressionist paintings, his production of graphic arts during his time in Tahiti constitutes a crucial, experimental phase of his career. Gauguin utilized the woodcut medium to explore complex themes of mythology, indigenous life, and spirituality, synthesizing Polynesian and European cultural references in powerful visual statements. This piece, created toward the very end of his life, reflects his commitment to simplifying form and maximizing the expressive potential of the wood grain, allowing the imperfections of the block to contribute to the overall narrative.

The later impression, skillfully made by printer Luc Guérin, ensures the longevity and availability of these technically demanding prints. As a major work from the French artist's graphic output, Te atua remains a touchstone for modern printmaking. This specific impression is part of the esteemed permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, offering scholars and the public vital access to this complex and important work. Given the work's classification and historical date, high-quality reproductions of this iconic image often enter the public domain, allowing for global appreciation of Gauguin’s innovative approach to printmaking.