Bouquet of Peonies on a Musical Score

Paul Gauguin placed lush peonies atop a musical score in this still life. The rich pink blooms contrast with the black and white of the sheet music beneath. The unusual combination reveals Gauguin's interest in linking visual and musical arts.

This early work predates Gauguin's famous Tahitian period. The bold color and unusual composition hint at his later innovations. The painting remains in a private collection.