The artwork titled “Oleanders and Books,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1888 in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, France, is a prime example of Post-Impressionism. Employing oil on canvas, the piece exhibits dimensions of 60.3 by 73.6 centimeters. This still life painting, which currently resides in a private collection, features evocative use of color and texture, characteristics emblematic of the Post-Impressionist movement.
In the artwork, van Gogh presents a vibrant display of oleanders, their blossoms captured in a profusion of pinks and whites with lush green leaves, set in a blue vase. The flowers spill gracefully towards the viewer, their organic forms contrasting with the geometrical structure of the book placed beside them. The book, characterized by its yellow cover and visible text, lies flat, creating a dialogue between the natural and the intellectual. Set against a vivid green backdrop, the artwork exudes an energetic yet contemplative atmosphere, reflecting van Gogh’s unique ability to imbue still life compositions with profound emotional resonance.
