The artwork titled “Still Life Vase with Twelve Sunflowers” is a distinguished painting created by Vincent van Gogh around the year 1889 in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, France. This oil-on-canvas painting is exemplary of the Post-Impressionism movement and measures 92 by 72.5 centimeters. The genre of the painting is flower painting, and it is currently housed in the Philadelphia Museum of Art located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.
In this artwork, a vibrant display of sunflowers is rendered in a vase, characterized by a rich palette of yellows, oranges, and greens. The sunflowers dominate the composition with their dynamic, swirling forms and textured surfaces, showcasing Van Gogh’s signature brushstrokes. The contrasting background of muted blue and the simplicity of the setting emphasize the exuberance and lively character of the flowers. Each sunflower is depicted with individuality, capturing various stages of bloom and decay, which not only highlights the beauty of their form but also evokes a deeper reflection on the cycle of life. The earthy tones of the vase and the table beneath complement the vivid colors of the flowers, creating a harmonious balance within the painting. This iconic piece embodies Van Gogh’s impassioned approach to capturing the essence of nature through color and movement.