“Portrait of the Artist’s Mother,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1888 in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, Netherlands, is an oil on canvas painting belonging to the Post-Impressionism movement. The artwork measures 40.5 by 32.5 cm, and it resides in a private collection. This portrait genre piece offers an intimate glimpse into the artist’s personal life through the depiction of his mother.
The artwork features a close-up depiction of a woman, presumed to be van Gogh’s mother, against a vibrant, green backdrop. Her visage is rendered with expressive brushstrokes, characteristic of van Gogh’s signature style. The contours of her face are accentuated with bold lines and a palette that encapsulates subtle shades of flesh tones, contrasting sharply with her somber, dark attire. The headpiece, adorned with a large bow, and the warmly insightful and slightly melancholic expression on her face, convey a profound depth of character and emotion. The background’s striking color enhances the simplicity and focus on the subject, further emphasizing her importance to the artist. The juxtaposition of the vivid background with the restrained yet impactful portrayal of the figure typifies the distinctive Post-Impressionist fascination with pushing the boundaries of traditional portraiture.
