Gauguin's chair

Vincent van Gogh (1853 - 1890), Arles, November 1888

Original: oil on canvas, 72.7 x 90.5 cm bxh

This painting of Paul Gauguin's chair is a 'portrait' of Van Gogh's artist friend. The modern novels and the candlestick with burning candle symbolise the character of the absent one.

In predominantly red and green tints, Van Gogh tried to capture a nocturnal atmosphere. As a counterpart to this work, he also painted a daytime effect: his own simple peasant chair, in bright yellow and blue. The two paintings symbolise the different characters of the two artists, who soon after broke up.

Van Gogh accurately painted bluish shadows and light reflections on the chair's shiny wood. These were caused by the gaslight (a gas lamp can be seen in the background).

This masterpiece by Vincent van Gogh can be seen in the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Read more about the life and work of Vincent van Gogh on his painter page.

Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam (Vincent van Gogh Foundation)

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