Little Breton Boy; A Pig and a Washerwoman [recto] 1884 - 1888

Paul Gauguin’s “Little Breton Boy; A Pig and a Washerwoman” is a striking example of the artist’s use of sketching to capture the essence of everyday life. The piece, completed between 1884 and 1888, is a two-sided work, the recto featuring a detailed portrait of a Breton boy with a pronounced beard, while the verso depicts a lively scene of a pig and a washerwoman engaged in their daily chores. This work exemplifies Gauguin’s interest in the simple lives and traditions of rural Brittany, a region that greatly inspired his art. The artist’s use of line and shading in both sides of the work captures the essence of his subjects, highlighting the unique character of Breton life. This drawing serves as a valuable insight into Gauguin’s creative process and his fascination with the social interactions and daily routines of the Breton people.