Eve 1890

Paul Gauguin made this sculpture of Eve in the late 19th century, using wood and applying a dark surface coating. Look closely, and you'll see the textures of the wood grain subtly emerging through the outer layer. This material influence gives the sculpture a unique appearance, and that combination of substance, texture, and form adds to its impact. Gauguin was deeply interested in the intersection of craft and fine art, and that he engaged with traditions outside of Western art, particularly Polynesian carving, to imbue his work with cultural significance. He was fascinated by non-Western art and techniques, and this interest is clearly visible in the way this sculpture was made. It is through such materials, making, and context that we come to a fuller understanding of an artwork, challenging any traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.