Scene
Dr. Gachet sits at a table, leaning his head on his right hand. A stylized landscape with rolling hills forms the background.
Portrait of Dr Gachet
Vincent van Gogh
1890
Figures
The subject is Dr. Paul-Ferdinand Gachet, the physician who supervised Van Gogh’s care. He is shown in a deeply introspective, melancholic pose.
Symbolism
The head-in-hand pose is a classical gesture of melancholy. A purple foxglove plant on the table references his medical profession.
Craft
Rhythmic, curving contours in the figure, table, and background reinforce the subject’s drooping pose.
Impact
The painting is widely regarded as a key example of modern psychological portraiture. It set a record auction price in 1990.
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Tags
Craft
