In Gauguin's 'The Yellow Christ' what do the colours represent?

Question

In Gauguin's 'The Yellow Christ' what do the colours represent?

Answer 1

Those shades of rust, yellow, and green are supposed to represent the rustic qualities of Brittany, France. That's a very specific question. There's a lot more to say about that painting. Think of the people in the painting in the same way you would think of the pilgrims that first came to North America. It's quite similar. It's also a reflection of the naivete of faith which when it's boiled down is merely superstition. Gauguin is almost saying look how simple these people are. Look how simple their lives are. Which evokes from myself an ambivalence. Two conflicting feelings. Both scorn, and envy. But I guess that's a trap intellectuals often fall into. Resentment of the fools, and sometimes wondering if it wouldn't be easier just to be one.

Answer 2

Just like the name aswell as the actual colour used in the painting, Yellow has always been a symbol for Holiness, sacred and always having a connection to God. This is a stunning painting with the vibrant colours also echoing the dominance and power of God. As you look at the woman in the painting, they are all in darker shades of colour, which reflects the role of women at the time, Woman always were in the shadows of men, especially in Jesus' shadow. Where as an example many woman followed Jesus in the Roman conquered area of Israel. Dark colours are representing shadows and reflect the period where woman where "behind men" and the yellow is representing the holiness and divinity.

Answer 3

I could not have said it any better than "Hazza". .. I suggest that you go with that answer!!