Te atua (The God), from the Noa Noa Suite 1894

This is 'Te Atua (The God),' a woodcut from the Noa Noa Suite by Paul Gauguin. Here, Gauguin depicts three spiritual figures, each set against a radiant halo. This compositional choice evokes the traditional Christian iconography of saints and deities, where halos signify divine status or enlightenment. The central figure, seated in a meditative pose, brings to mind the iconography of the Buddha. This posture, with hands resting gently in the lap, symbolizes inner peace, contemplation, and spiritual awakening, echoing across cultures from Asia to Europe. Notice how this symbol resurfaces in various guises throughout history. It transcends its original context, reappearing in different cultural and religious settings, each time imbued with new layers of meaning. These visual motifs tap into a collective memory, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. It's a recurring theme in art and spirituality that continues to influence how we perceive the sacred. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the evocative symbolism, stirs a profound emotional and psychological response. It is a testament to the enduring power of images to connect us to deeper, often unspoken, aspects of the human experience.