Twee zittende Maori vrouwen

Twee zittende Maori vrouwen is a compelling print created by Paul Gauguin between 1894 and 1895. Executed on paper, this graphic work captures two seated indigenous women, reflecting the artist’s deep engagement with Polynesian culture following his initial return from Tahiti. This period marked a crucial transition in Gauguin’s career, where he heavily developed his unique approach to printmaking, focusing on simplified forms, strong silhouettes, and stark contrasts typical of the medium.

Gauguin consistently sought inspiration outside traditional European conventions, finding particular resonance in the people and environment of the South Pacific. The composition focuses intimately on the figures, capturing a sense of stillness and contemplation characteristic of the artist's depictions of Maori subjects. In this piece, the simplified outlines and heavy forms emphasize the women’s quiet dignity. The stylized depiction aligns with the Post-Impressionist move toward symbolic, rather than purely descriptive, representation, treating the indigenous figures not just as exotic subjects, but as embodiments of a deeper spiritual life.

The graphic nature of this work contrasts sharply with the vibrant colors of Gauguin's concurrent oil paintings, highlighting his versatility across different artistic media. As a significant example of his late-career experimentation with graphic arts, this print remains an important record of his enduring fascination with non-Western portraiture. The piece is classified as a print and is held within the esteemed collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Images of this important artwork, representing a key moment in Gauguin's interpretation of Tahitian and Maori culture, are often available in the public domain, ensuring widespread access for art historians and researchers.