“Portrait of Madame Ginoux (L’Arlesienne)” is a work by the distinguished artist Vincent van Gogh, created in the year 1890 in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France. This oil on canvas painting, measuring 50 x 60 cm, is a prime example of Post-Impressionism and falls within the genre of portraiture.
The artwork depicts Madame Ginoux, a woman posed with contemplative elegance. Her visage is serene yet imbued with a profound presence, characterized by delicate brushstrokes typical of van Gogh’s mastery. Set against a lightly textured, hatched pinkish background, Madame Ginoux is attired in a dark dress with a high, frilled collar, exuding both simplicity and depth. Her left hand rests thoughtfully against her cheek, while her right hand is simply visible at the base, near two closed books placed on the table before her. The contrast between the dark attire and the pastel background highlights the subject, drawing the viewer’s attention to her thoughtful expression and enigmatic aura.