GOGH, Vincent van
(b. 1853, Groot Zundert, d. 1890, Auvers-sur-Oise)

In the Jardin du Luxembourg

June-July 1886, Paris
Oil on canvas, 28 x 46 cm
The Clark Art Institute, Williamstown

Catalogue numbers: F 223, JH 1111.

Van Gogh adopted the Impressionist and pointillist techniques from 1886 to 1888 in Paris. His views of the city, of walkers in the park, the Seine, or avenues were among the best that Impressionism produced - even if an undisciplined brushwork or a confrontational approach to objects and forms could sometimes mar the effect.

The scene depicted in this painting is tranquil, flooded with bright sunlight. The people are strolling along the shady lane or sitting in the park benches watching the world go by. Even the woman in black at left is carrying a cheerful red parasol. Van Gogh created in this scene one of his most attractive 'realistic' paintings.