Mother and Child (recto); Profile Bust of a Man (verso)

Paul Gauguin's "Mother and Child (recto); Profile Bust of a Man (verso)" from 1870 offers a fascinating glimpse into the early period of an artist who would become a giant of Post-Impressionism. Created when Gauguin was just 22 years old and still working as a stockbroker, this black chalk drawing predates his full immersion into art. While it doesn't yet bear the vivid colors and Symbolist themes of his later Tahitian works, such as "Ia Orana Maria (Hail Mary)" or "Mahana no atua (Day of the God)," it demonstrates his foundational drawing skills. This early work provides a contrast to the bold, experimental style that would define his mature career, showing a more conventional approach to portraiture and figural study. The dual nature of the drawing, with a 'recto' and 'verso,' also highlights a practical aspect of an artist's early practice, making efficient use of materials.