“Portrait of the Postman Joseph Roulin” is an artwork created by Vincent van Gogh in 1888 while he was in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, France. This sketch exemplifies the Post-Impressionism movement and utilizes ink on paper. The dimensions of this artwork are 31.1 x 24.3 cm, and it falls within the genre of sketch and study, specifically portraying a portrait.
The artwork depicts a bearded man, Joseph Roulin, who was a postman and a friend of Van Gogh. The intricate use of ink showcases Van Gogh’s skilled hand and attention to detail. The subject is dressed in a uniformed cap labeled “POSTES,” indicating his profession. The background is marked by a series of expressive, overlapping ink strokes, creating a sense of depth and texture. The beards and coat of the postman are depicted with careful cross-hatching and varied line work, adding volume and a lifelike quality to the portrait. This work captures both the physical likeness and the dignified character of Joseph Roulin, making it a remarkable piece in Van Gogh’s oeuvre.
