This work may have decorated cupboard doors in the dining room. Some see the artist casting himself in the role of Satan, others as Christ. All of these must have been in Gauguin's mind, and in his intention. Discuss the relationships of different colors with emotion. Compare Gauguin's painting with another symbolist canvas by Khnopff.
History tends to focus on urban life.
Research the life of people in rural areas like Brittany in the late nineteenth century. Symbolism Symbolists regarded a work of art as a product of the emotions, growing from the inner spirit of the artist. They were preoccupied with mysticism, dream states, and the erotic, all of which helped release creative potential of both artist and the receiving audience. It was a reaction to and a rejection of the materialism in modern culture.