Landscape of Martinique

The subject depicted is a landscape on the island of Martinique. In 1887, Gauguin travelled to Martinique along with painter Charles Laval, supposedly in search of new and'exotic'subject matter to form the focus of his art. Gauguin was particularly fascinated with female workers who would transport goods from the plantations to the markets (known locally as'porteuses'). Gauguin continued to reference Martinique and its culture in his art long after the visit.