Sotheby’s (October 17, 2024): Presented in partnership with Celine, Sotheby’s Paris is proud to feature the Impressionist masterpiece “Le jardin de Pissarro,
Quai du Pothuis à Pontoise,” painted by Paul Gauguin in 1881, as one of the highlight lots in the upcoming Modernités sale. This painting is emblematic of the early years of Gauguin’s artistic journey. During 1879-1881, Gauguin became a regular visitor of Camille Pissarro, whom he fondly referred to as his “dear Professor.” He often joined Pissarro in Pontoise, where Pissarro had settled. It was under Pissarro’s mentorship that Gauguin began his career as a painter and mastered essential techniques.
These years were crucial to Gauguin’s artistic development, and this painting, depicting Pissarro’s house and garden, serves as a heartfelt tribute from student to master. The presence of two self-portraits by Gauguin on the reverse side makes this piece truly unique. Painted very early in his career, this dual-sided work already demonstrates a striking modernity. Gauguin’s style, even at this early stage, was ahead of its time and hinted at the innovations he would bring to art in the years to come. This painting is a bold assertion of the artist’s emerging identity.
