Master Apollon

Analyzing Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night Over the Rhône” (1888)

Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night Over the Rhône,” painted in 1888, is one of the artist’s most celebrated works, capturing the enchanting beauty of a night sky over the Rhône River in Arles, France. This article delves into the painting’s subject matter, the process behind its creation, and the vibrant color palette that characterizes this masterpiece.

Subject Matter

Location and Composition

Van Gogh painted “Starry Night Over the Rhône” from the east bank of the Rhône River, near Place Lamartine. The viewpoint faces southwest, providing a scenic panorama that includes the iconic towers of Saint-Julien and Saint-Trophime on the left. On the right side of the canvas, the iron bridge connecting Arles to Trinquetaille is prominently featured, serving as a focal point that invites the viewer into the scene.

The composition beautifully encapsulates the unique nighttime atmosphere of Arles. The sky is filled with swirling clouds, while the river reflects the luminous gaslights that illuminate the banks. In the foreground, two lovers stroll along the riverbank, their presence adding a touch of intimacy and humanity to the expansive natural landscape. This choice to include figures in the foreground suggests Van Gogh’s intent to create a narrative that resonates with viewers on a personal level.

Inaccuracies and Artistic License

While striving for realism, Van Gogh took artistic liberties in his depiction of the night sky. Notably, the constellation Ursa Major (The Great Bear) is visible, despite not being visible from the chosen viewpoint in Arles. This decision raises questions about the balance between representation and artistic interpretation in Van Gogh’s work. The inclusion of Ursa Major suggests that Van Gogh may have revised the composition, prioritizing a dramatic effect over strict adherence to the night sky’s actual appearance.

Genesis of the Painting

Letter to Theo

The genesis of “Starry Night Over the Rhône” is documented in a letter Van Gogh wrote to his brother, Theo, in September 1888. In this correspondence, he described the painting’s early stages and provided insight into his artistic process. Van Gogh wrote:

“Included a small sketch of a 30 square canvas – in short, the starry sky painted by night, actually under a gas jet. The sky is aquamarine, the water is royal blue, the ground is mauve. The town is blue and purple. The gas is yellow, and the reflections are russet gold descending down to green-bronze. On the aquamarine field of the sky, the Great Bear is a sparkling green and pink, whose discreet paleness contrasts with the brutal gold of the gas. Two colorful figurines of lovers in the foreground.”

This vivid description highlights Van Gogh’s attention to detail and his fascination with color. His meticulous notation of hues showcases his dedication to capturing the essence of the scene he was portraying. The use of descriptive language not only conveys the visual elements but also reflects the emotional resonance he sought to evoke.

Reworking and Artistic Experimentation

Van Gogh’s practice of reworking his paintings is evident in “Starry Night Over the Rhône.” The noticeable heavy reworking, particularly in the foreground, suggests that he experimented with and adjusted the composition after completing an initial version. This aligns with his artistic process, which often involved revisiting and refining his work until he felt it accurately conveyed his vision. The existence of letter sketches further supports the idea that Van Gogh was engaged in a continuous dialogue with his art, potentially reflecting earlier iterations and evolving concepts.

Colors of the Night

Nighttime Palette

One of the most striking aspects of “Starry Night Over the Rhône” is Van Gogh’s ability to capture the vibrancy of color at night. The painting highlights the contrast between the cool, natural light of the starry sky and the warm, artificial glow of the gaslights. The use of deep blues and aquamarines in the sky and water contrasts beautifully with the yellows and golds of the gaslights, creating a dynamic interplay that draws the viewer’s eye across the canvas.

Van Gogh’s fascination with color is particularly evident in this work. He deftly manipulates the palette to evoke the emotions associated with the night, immersing the viewer in the tranquil yet lively atmosphere of Arles after dark. The vibrant colors not only capture the visual essence of the scene but also convey the artist’s emotional response to the beauty surrounding him.

Importance of Color in Van Gogh’s Work

Color held immense significance for Van Gogh, serving as a vehicle for expression and emotional depth. Throughout his letters to Theo, he meticulously described the hues and tones present in his works, showcasing his dedication to capturing their essence. The colors in “Starry Night Over the Rhône” reflect this commitment, as each tone contributes to the overall mood and narrative of the painting.

Van Gogh’s innovative use of color went beyond mere representation; it was an exploration of the psychological impact of hues on the viewer. In “Starry Night Over the Rhône,” the warm glow of the gaslights contrasts with the coolness of the water and sky, creating a sense of harmony amidst the contrasting elements. This interplay invites viewers to experience the scene not just visually, but emotionally, connecting them to the essence of the moment.

Conclusion

“Starry Night Over the Rhône” stands as a testament to Vincent van Gogh’s artistic genius and his enduring fascination with the beauty of the night. The painting is a compelling portrayal of Arles under a starlit sky, blending accurate detail with artistic interpretation. Van Gogh’s masterful use of color and composition, combined with the inclusion of human figures, creates an intimate and captivating atmosphere that resonates with viewers.

This work exemplifies Van Gogh’s dedication to capturing the vibrancy of life and the emotional richness of the natural world. By skillfully balancing realism with imaginative elements, Van Gogh invites us to experience the wonder of the night sky and the timeless beauty of love and companionship. In doing so, “Starry Night Over the Rhône” continues to captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into the soul of one of history’s most revered artists.