Gauguin

by Françoise Cachin

In this classic monograph, Françoise Cachin traces the evolution of Gauguin's theories and painting technique from his earliest days as a selftaught painter to his last masterpieces painted in the South Seas. The text and over 300 illustrations follow Gauguin from Brittany to the Marquesas Islands in his life long search for the authentic, a search that passes through his break with the Impressionists and involvement with the Neo-Impressionists to the startling paintings made during his stay among the South Pacific islanders. Copiously illustrated throughout, this acclaimed study places the artist's work in the context of his life, quoting from his copious correspondence to show how his painting was affected by what was going on around him-from the effervescence of his contemporaries to his personal tragedies.

This new edition has been thoroughly updated to reflect current international museum holdings.

Genres: Art, Reference

312 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Michael P. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm glad I did not know this creep, but what an informative book about Gauguin and his work. It is mostly flawed by the small trim size, which guarantees that the art will be reproduced in an unacceptably small size. The translation from the French is also a bit stodgy in places. Otherwise, a worthwhile introduction to a great artist.

[James F · Rating 3 out of 5]

Françoise Cachin is the author of a major book on Gauguin; that's not this one. This is a volume in the series (or perhaps simply an imprint) called Discoveries published by Harry N. Abrams. It is similar in tone to the Belinda Thomson book I read previously, with perhaps a bit more interpretation. It is a small-format book; there are (color) illustrations on most of the first 133 pages, but they are all small. The remainder of the book, titled "Documents", contain excerpts from the writings of Gauguin himself and various acquaintances and critics.

[Shirley Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful little book that I read in conjunction with my 40th birthday trip to Moorea in 2001.

[Erica · Rating 2 out of 5]

While I liked the history and to see the progression of someone's artistic vision. Beautiful pictures included, however, written from a French colonial male perspective and felt an important aspect of who this person was as a man and a father were minimized and/or ignored. I guess I am over the brilliant artist, who is really not a great person.

[Charles Bechtel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never much of a Gauguin fan until I read this book I picked up for a dime at a yard sale. Fair and comprehensive for a first look in on this misunderstood artist. I shall give the man more attention in the future.

[Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. Portable and comprehensive.