Garden at Auvers
Painting on canvas • Vincent van Gogh
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas using impasto. Characteristics include expressive, rhythmic brushstrokes, thick application of paint with visible textures, and a vibrant color palette.
Creation Period
July 1890
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 73 cm x 60 cm (28.7 in x 23.6 in); vertical/portrait format.
Subject Description
The painting depicts a lush, vibrant garden in Auvers-sur-Oise. It features a sweeping composition with large, flame-like cypress-style trees and a dense thicket of greenery and flowers. A distinctive red wall or roof provides a sharp diagonal contrast against the cool-toned blue sky, filled with swirling, energetic clouds.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Very Good. The paint surface appears stable with well-preserved impasto peaks, though typical aged craquelure might be present under close inspection.
Estimated Market Value
$60,000,000 - $100,000,000+ (Based on recent sales of major late-period Van Gogh works such as 'Verger avec cyprès')
Auction Estimate
$70,000,000 - $90,000,000
Provenance History
Formerly in the collection of Dr. Paul Gachet, the artist's physician; donated to the French state; currently in the collection of the Musée d'Orsay, Paris.
Art Historical Significance
A significant late work created during the artist's final weeks in Auvers. It demonstrates his mastery of 'double-square' or related compositions and his highly emotional, kinetic brushwork that signaled the bridge between Post-Impressionism and Expressionism.
Notable Features
The 'flame-like' Treatment of foliage and the striking use of a saturated red horizontal band that directs the eye through the chaotic movement of the garden.
Condition Issues
Potential micro-cracking due to the thickness of the impasto; slight yellowing of old varnish if present, though likely professionally cleaned and conserved by the Musée d'Orsay.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain strictly controlled humidity (45-55%) and temperature. Use UV-filtering glass and low-level LED lighting to prevent pigment degradation (especially sensitive chrome yellows or eosin reds).