Gauguin: The Quest for Paradise

by Françoise Cachin

Following the life and artistic career of one of the greatest of the Postimpressionist painters, an illustrated biography of Gauguin includes information culled from his letters and writings, and reproductions of many of his paintings. Original.

Genres: Art, Reference

195 pages, Paperback

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.