In Emil Gauguin as a Child, Right Hand Forward, the viewer sees a young boy, likely representing the artist himself, with his right hand extended forward. The colors are warm and inviting, featuring earthy tones that suggest a sense of nostalgia. The background is simple, allowing the figure to stand out prominently.

The child's expression is curious, capturing a moment of innocence and exploration. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich texture and depth in color. Gauguin's brushwork is evident, with visible strokes that add a sense of movement to the piece. The dimensions are approximately 50 x 70 cm, making it a modestly sized portrait.

The composition focuses on the child, emphasizing the forward-reaching hand as a symbol of curiosity. Paul Gauguin, known for his role in the Post-Impressionist movement, often explored themes of identity and childhood in his work. This particular painting reflects his own childhood experiences and serves as a personal homage to his early years. An interesting fact about this work is that it captures the essence of Gauguin's style, which would later evolve into more vibrant and exotic themes in his later works.

It highlights the artist's journey from innocence to the more complex subjects he would tackle in adulthood.