Artwork

Garden Behind a House

Garden Behind a House, by Vincent van Gogh, oil, 1888
Garden Behind a House, by Vincent van Gogh, oil, 1888

Garden Behind a House is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

Garden Behind a House is an 1888 oil painting by Vincent van Gogh, currently part of the collection at the Kunsthaus Zürich.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a vibrant garden scene behind a house, emphasizing lush greenery, colorful flowers, and architectural elements such as a white house with a red roof. The composition includes trees along the left side and a path leading deeper into the garden, suggesting depth and invitation.

Technique & Style

Characterized by thick, visible brushstrokes, the work exhibits a textured quality. Van Gogh's palette is dominated by yellows and greens, with an overall emphasis on color to convey the garden's vitality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1888, the painting's history prior to its current holding at the Kunsthaus Zürich is not detailed here. Its creation date places it within Van Gogh's prolific period.

Context

This work reflects Van Gogh's tendency during the late 19th century to focus on natural settings and everyday life, often infusing them with emotional intensity through vibrant color choices.

Legacy

While not highlighted as one of Van Gogh's most renowned works, 'Garden Behind a House' contributes to the broader understanding of his stylistic evolution and thematic preoccupations during 1888.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Vincent van Gogh

Artist

Vincent van Gogh

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Kunsthaus Zürich open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.