Vincent van Gogh is one of the most well-known post-Impressionist artists, who was not truly appreciated in his lifetime, left one of the most startling artistic legacies of the late nineteenth century. I have been fascinated with his works ever since we visited the Van Gogh Museum during our trip to Amsterdam two years ago. This troubled genius’s “Portrait du Dr Gachet” painting sold for a record $82.5 million in 1990, 100 years after his death!
Through this ‘A Portrait of His Life and Work’ book, we follow the path that led him from his early attempts to forge a career, via his initial foray into the world of art during which he produced his famous earthy portrayals of Dutch peasants to the inspiration of colour and new styles that he discovered in the late 1880s in Paris, to the sunlight of Provence and his final days in the village of Auvers-sur-Oise.
This book also included rare documents such as letters the artist sent to his brother and sister, the medical analysis of his illness and the announcement card of the artist’s death. It is almost like bringing the Van Gogh Museum to your home. The book is gloriously illustrated with 130 colour and black & white photographs and sketches, such as his favourite Sunflowers, Starry Night and his self-portraits.
I really enjoy reading this book. It is great to keep on the bookshelf and would recommend it. It is available to pre-order now via Carlton Books or any good book store.
Disclosure: We received the sample for the purposes of writing this review, however, all thoughts and opinions remain our own.