In a momentous development for the art world, the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) has proudly announced its acquisition of The Blue Roof or Farm at Le Pouldu (1890), a seminal work by French post-impressionist master Paul Gauguin.

The painting, purchased for a substantial US$6.5 million (AU $10 million), marks the NGA as the first public collection in Australia to own a major Gauguin piece.

A Significant Addition

The acquisition of The Blue Roof or Farm at Le Pouldu from an international private collector underscores the NGA’s commitment to enriching its collection with significant global artworks. The painting’s provenance is notable, having previously belonged to the distinguished collectors Wendy and Emery Reves. Emery Reves, a Hungarian émigré who made a name for himself in Paris as a writer and editor, was also a close associate of Winston Churchill. His American-born wife, Wendy, was a prominent model. The Reves collection was renowned for its high calibre and historical significance, making the painting’s journey to the NGA all the more remarkable.

Before its acquisition by the NGA, the artwork had been sold at Christie’s in 2000 for US $5.3 million (AU $8.1 million). The painting’s reappearance on the market and its subsequent purchase by the NGA reflects the ongoing high demand and appreciation for Gauguin’s work. The NGA’s investment is not just a testament to the painting’s intrinsic value but also to its cultural and historical significance.

Celebrating Gauguin’s Legacy

The painting has been on display at the NGA since the opening of its major exhibition, Gauguin’s World: Tōna Iho, Tōna Ao, which runs until October 6. Curated by Henri Loyrette, former director of the Louvre, this exhibition provides an in-depth exploration of Gauguin’s work and his impact on art history. The exhibition also includes a symposium featuring Polynesian scholars who offer contemporary perspectives on Gauguin’s complex legacy.

Miriama Bono, former director of the Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, highlighted the disconnect between Gauguin and the Tahitian people, noting that his work was largely unknown to them during his time in French Polynesia. Bono observed that Gauguin’s legacy is being re-examined by modern Polynesian artists who are reinterpreting his work with a blend of humour and critical engagement. This evolving dialogue underscores a broader reevaluation of Gauguin’s impact on the Pacific art scene.

The National Gallery’s Vision

Nick Mitzevich, Director of the National Gallery, described the acquisition as “an important addition to the national collection,” emphasizing its historical and artistic significance. Mitzevich noted that the painting captures a pivotal moment in Gauguin’s career, marking his transition from Impressionist techniques to a more bold and innovative style. This shift highlights Gauguin’s role in the evolution of modern art and reinforces the NGA’s commitment to showcasing works that capture key moments in art history.

The NGA’s purchase was made possible through funding from the National Gallery Foundation, reflecting the gallery’s strategic focus on expanding its collection with high-calibre works. Following the exhibition, The Blue Roof or Farm at Le Pouldu will become a permanent feature of the gallery’s collection, allowing future generations to appreciate Gauguin’s contributions to art.

The Broader Context

The acquisition of Gauguin’s work comes amidst a backdrop of record-breaking sales for his paintings. In 2022, a Gauguin piece from his Pacific period reportedly sold for over $160 million at auction, illustrating the high market value of his art. This trend highlights the growing recognition of Gauguin’s influence and the increasing interest in his works among collectors and institutions worldwide.

The NGA’s strategic acquisition aligns with broader trends in the art world, where institutions are investing in significant works to bolster their collections and attract global attention. By securing The Blue Roof or Farm at Le Pouldu , the NGA not only enhances its collection but also positions itself at the forefront of global art institutions.

The acquisition of Paul Gauguin’s The Blue Roof or Farm at Le Pouldu by the National Gallery of Australia represents a landmark moment in the gallery’s history. This significant investment underscores the gallery’s commitment to preserving and showcasing pivotal works of art, enriching Australia’s cultural landscape. As the painting joins the NGA’s permanent collection, it will continue to inspire and educate audiences, contributing to a deeper understanding of Gauguin’s legacy and the broader history of art.