Ia Orana Maria (Hail Mary)

In 1891, Paul Gauguin painted ‘Ia Orana Maria (Hail Mary)’ shortly after arriving in Tahiti. It combines Western religious iconography with Polynesian culture. Oil on canvas, 113.7 x 87.6 cm.

The painting depicts two Polynesian women greeting a Tahitian mother and child. Gauguin reimagines them as a Madonna and Child. No known explanation exists for this hybrid imagery.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art acquired this painting through the bequest of Sam A. Lewisohn in 1951. Gauguin’s work from this period often challenges traditional European depictions.

Gauguin was largely self-taught, influenced by associations with Impressionists like Camille Pissarro. He shifted full-time to painting after a financial crisis ended his brokerage career.

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/438821

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