The Drinkers (1890) by Vincent van Gogh
Description: "The Drinkers" (1890) by Vincent van Gogh is a vivid and dynamic painting that captures a group of four men seated around a small table, sharing a drink in a café or pub. Created during the final year of van Gogh's life while he was living in the asylum at Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, this artwork reflects his fascination with everyday scenes and his desire to explore the lives of ordinary people. The composition is based on an 1862 lithograph by Honoré Daumier, which van Gogh admired for its portrayal of common working-class individuals. In his interpretation, van Gogh uses a striking palette of greens, blues, and browns, applying his characteristic thick, swirling brushstrokes to convey movement and energy. The expressions of the drinkers, their worn clothing, and the humble setting suggest a sense of camaraderie and the shared hardship of daily life.
Vincent van Gogh (1853–1890) was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter known for his expressive use of color, dramatic brushwork, and emotional intensity. His works often focused on rural life, laborers, and urban scenes, reflecting his empathy for the marginalized and his interest in capturing the human condition. "The Drinkers" reflects van Gogh's ability to transform a simple scene into a poignant exploration of social themes, using color and form to evoke mood and emotion.
Details:
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Location and Date Created: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France, 1890.
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Medium: Oil on canvas.
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Full Artwork Name: The Drinkers.
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Artwork Style: Post-Impressionism.
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Subject/Topic: A scene depicting four men drinking together, capturing a moment of shared experience and camaraderie, inspired by an earlier work by Honoré Daumier.
