“The Potato Eaters (preliminary oil sketch)” is an artwork created by Vincent van Gogh in 1885 in Nuenen, Netherlands. The artwork, rendered in oil on canvas, belongs to the Realism art movement and is categorized under the genre of sketch and study. It is presently housed at the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo, Netherlands.
The artwork depicts a group of five figures, presumably a family, gathered around a modest table sharing a meal of potatoes. The setting is dimly lit by a single overhead lamp, casting a soft glow over the scene and creating a sense of intimacy. The individuals are portrayed with somber expressions and rugged appearances, reflecting the hardships and simplicity of rural life. The color palette is dominated by dark, earthy tones, enhancing the realism and gravity of the scene. The preliminary sketch showcases Van Gogh’s talent for capturing human emotion and everyday life, setting the groundwork for his later, more polished works in the same theme.
