The artwork, named “Orchard Surrounded by Cypresses,” was created by Vincent van Gogh in 1888 in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, France. This piece belongs to the Post-Impressionism movement and serves as a sketch and study. It is currently housed in the Morgan Library and Museum (Pierpont Morgan Library) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork depicts an orchard encased by tall, slender cypress trees. Drawn with purposeful, linear strokes, the sketch conveys the tranquility and simplicity of the rural landscape. Houses and fences are interspersed among the trees, hinting at human presence within the lush surroundings. Van Gogh’s use of dark, intersecting lines to outline the trees and structures brings a dynamic texture to the scene, while the handwritten notes and annotations provide insight into his artistic thought process. This study encapsulates Van Gogh’s fascination with nature and his ability to convey the nuances of light and form through his distinctive sketching technique.
