Artwork
The Large Plane Trees (Road Menders at Saint-Rémy)
The Large Plane Trees (Road Menders at Saint-Rémy) is an unspecified painting by the Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
This painting shows workers repairing a road lined with tall, bare plane trees in Saint-Rémy.
This painting shows workers repairing a road lined with tall, bare plane trees in Saint-Rémy. The colors are mostly greens and browns, with thick paint that stands up off the canvas. You can almost feel the cool autumn air in the scene.
Van Gogh made this while staying at a hospital nearby. His doctor let him paint outside because it helped him feel better. The trees twist up like they’re dancing, even though the workers look tired.
Look up Vincent van Gogh (Dutch, 1853–1890) to see more of his bold, swirly style.
Overview
The Large Plane Trees (Road Menders at Saint-Rémy) is a painting by Vincent van Gogh, created while he was a patient at a psychiatric hospital near Saint-Rémy in southern France.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts road workers repairing a street lined with large plane trees, capturing the autumnal atmosphere with yellowing leaves and muted colors. The scene conveys a sense of industriousness amidst the natural beauty of the season.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by thick, textured brushstrokes and a predominantly green and brown color palette, evoking the coolness of the autumn air. The twisting tree trunks are rendered in a dynamic, expressive manner.
History & Provenance
Van Gogh painted this landscape during his stay at the hospital, where his physician allowed him to work outdoors as a form of therapy to alleviate his depression.
Artist & collection
Artist
Vincent Willem van Gogh was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who is among the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art.
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