Seascape with cow on the edge of a cliff 1888

Paul Gauguin likely made this painting sometime in the late 19th century, using oil paints on canvas. This was, of course, a standard medium at the time, yet it’s fascinating how Gauguin handled the paint. Look at the way he applied it; the brushstrokes are so visible. See how he builds up layers of color to create texture and depth, especially in the cliffs. There's a sense of immediacy, as if he wanted to capture a fleeting moment. The vibrancy of the colors, not quite true to life, suggests he was more interested in conveying a feeling than in pure representation. It’s important to remember that oil paint wasn’t just a material for Gauguin; it was a vehicle for expression, heavily imbued with the labor, social, and cultural context of its making. He challenged conventional painting techniques, pushing the boundaries between observation and imagination.