The Ham: A Cézanne Echo in Gauguin’s Palette

• A Moment of Quiet Intensity
• Eugène Henri Paul Gauguin's “The Ham,” painted in 1889, is a deceptively simple still life that reveals the profound influence of Paul Cézanne on the artist’s evolving style. Far from a mere depiction of food, it represents a pivotal moment in Gauguin’s artistic journey – a conscious embrace of form and volume inspired by his admiration for Cézanne's groundbreaking approach to depicting three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface.
• The Compositional Tension
• At first glance, the painting presents a carefully arranged tableau: a central ham resting upon a plate, surrounded by carrots and peas. However, closer observation reveals a deliberate tension within the composition. Gauguin masterfully juxtaposes decorative flatness with implied space through repeating curves – the rounded forms of the onions, the spiraling lines reminiscent of chain links, the gentle swell of the ham itself, and the undulating base of the table. This interplay creates a dynamic visual experience, drawing the eye across the canvas while simultaneously grounding it in the painted surface.

Cézanne’s Enduring Legacy

• A Deeply Rooted Admiration
• Gauguin's relationship with Cézanne was one of intense respect and emulation. He initially encountered Cézanne in 1881, participating in a shared studio alongside Camille Pissarro. Gauguin’s fascination with Cézanne deepened over time, culminating in the acquisition of several of his works, most notably “Still Life with Fruit Bowl, Glass and Apples” (circa 1879-1882). This latter painting served as a constant source of inspiration, its vigorously modeled forms – particularly the apples – profoundly influencing Gauguin’s own technique. The deliberate choice to depict the onions in deep blue, mirroring Cézanne's use of color to model form, further underscores this connection.
• Reaching for Plasticity
• The painting represents a crucial step in Gauguin’s artistic development – his move towards greater plasticity in his forms. He was actively seeking to break free from the limitations of Impressionism and explore new ways of representing reality, influenced by Cézanne's ability to capture the essence of objects through careful observation and manipulation of light and shadow.

Symbolic Resonance & Technique

• Color as Form
• Gauguin’s use of color is not merely decorative; it's integral to his approach. The warm yellow background provides a vibrant counterpoint to the cool blues and greens used to define the objects, enhancing their three-dimensionality. The careful application of paint – visible brushstrokes and textured surfaces – contributes to the painting’s tactile quality, inviting the viewer to engage with the artwork on a sensory level.
• A Collector's Perspective
• Duncan Phillips, who later acquired the work, recognized its significance, commenting that it “bore such a resemblance to the collection and is so much needed as a source of subsequent painting.” This highlights the painting’s value not just as an aesthetic object but also as a study piece – a demonstration of Gauguin's evolving technique and his engagement with Cézanne’s legacy.

Emotional Impact & Artistic Significance

• A Quiet Contemplation
• "The Ham" is more than just a still life; it's an invitation to contemplate the beauty of everyday objects and the power of artistic interpretation. Gauguin’s masterful handling of form, color, and composition creates a sense of quiet intensity, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the subtle nuances of this deceptively simple scene.
• A Key Work in Gauguin's Evolution
• This painting stands as a crucial marker in Gauguin’s artistic development, demonstrating his willingness to experiment with new techniques and explore different influences. It exemplifies the artist’s commitment to forging his own unique path while remaining deeply connected to the artistic traditions of his time.