Artwork

Portret van Joseph Roulin

Portret van Joseph Roulin, by Vincent van Gogh, oil
Portret van Joseph Roulin, by Vincent van Gogh, oil

Portret van Joseph Roulin is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. It is held in the collection of the Kröller-Müller Museum.

About this work

Overview

Portret van Joseph Roulin is an oil painting by Vincent van Gogh, executed in 1895. It is part of the collection at the Kröller-Müller Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Joseph Roulin, identified by his attire: a blue cap with 'POSTES' and a matching coat with yellow buttons, indicating his profession. His serious expression and direct gaze are central to the composition.

Technique & Style

The painting features expressive, visible brushstrokes and thick, heavy paint application, characteristic of Van Gogh's post-Impressionist style. The vibrant, contrasting colors (bright green background with scattered white, red, and blue flowers) add to the work's dynamic quality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1895, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Kröller-Müller Museum is not detailed here, highlighting the need for further research on its early provenance.

Context

Painted during Van Gogh's later period, Portret van Joseph Roulin reflects the artist's continued exploration of capturing the essence of ordinary individuals through bold, expressive means.

Legacy

As part of Van Gogh's oeuvre, the portrait contributes to the broader appreciation of his stylistic innovations and his focus on the human subject, though its specific impact or influence is not uniquely distinguished in the available information.

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: Kröller-Müller Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.