Blue Irises Against Yellow

Vase with Irises Against a Yellow Background by Vincent van Gogh

Description: "Vase with Irises Against a Yellow Background" by Vincent van Gogh is a vibrant still-life painting created in May 1890, during the last months of his life in Auvers-sur-Oise, France. This painting depicts a bouquet of irises, their deep blue and violet petals contrasting sharply with the bright, golden yellow background. The irises are placed in a simple green vase, which sits on a surface painted in complementary colors, creating a dynamic interplay between the foreground and the background. Van Gogh’s thick, swirling brushstrokes capture the delicate curves of the iris petals and the angular lines of their green stems and leaves, lending a sense of movement and life to the composition.

Van Gogh's use of bold, contrasting colors in this painting exemplifies his deep understanding of color theory and his desire to evoke emotional responses through color combinations. The vivid yellow background, one of his favorite colors, symbolizes warmth, energy, and optimism, while the cool blues and purples of the irises offer a striking visual contrast. This painting reflects Van Gogh's fascination with the expressive power of color and his continuing exploration of still-life subjects during his time in the asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and later in Auvers. "Vase with Irises Against a Yellow Background" is considered one of Van Gogh's masterpieces, showcasing his ability to blend intense color with emotional depth.

Details:

• Location and Date Created: Auvers-sur-Oise, France, May 1890.
• Medium: Oil on canvas.
• Full Artwork Name: Vase with Irises Against a Yellow Background by Vincent van Gogh.
• Artwork Style: Post-Impressionism.
• Subject/Topic: A still-life composition of irises in a vase, set against a bright yellow background, emphasizing vibrant color contrasts and expressive brushwork.