Crown Imperials in a Copper Vase
Painting on canvas • Vincent van Gogh
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism (Paris Period)
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, employing heavy impasto, short rhythmic brushstrokes (pointillist influence), and contrasting color theory
Creation Period
1887
Dimensions & Format
73.5 x 60.5 cm; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A dense arrangement of orange Crown Imperial Fritillaria blossoms in a golden-brown copper vase. The composition uses a vibrant blue-green background composed of small dots and dashes of paint, creating a halo effect around the flowers. The table surface is rendered with complementary orange and yellow horizontal strokes.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Very Good; the original oil layers appear stable although some surface dirt and aged varnish may be present.
Estimated Market Value
$40,000,000 - $60,000,000 (estimation based on recent sales of major Van Gogh still lifes)
Auction Estimate
$35,000,000 - $55,000,000
Provenance History
Formerly in the collection of the artist's brother, Theo van Gogh; currently in the collection of the Musée d'Orsay, Paris (RF 1993).
Art Historical Significance
A pivotal work from Van Gogh's Paris period (1886-1888) showing his transition from Dutch realism to a bright, Neo-Impressionist palette. It demonstrates his mastery of color theory as taught by Charles Blanc and influenced by Georges Seurat.
Notable Features
Significantly textured impasto in the orange flower petals; use of a 'pointillist' background to enhance the luminosity of the central subject; the signature style of his emerging mature period.
Condition Issues
Minor craquelure typical of 19th-century oil paintings; slight yellowing of older varnish; likely relined at some point during the 20th century.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning to remove aged varnish; display in a climate-controlled environment with UV-filtered lighting (maximum 50 lux); original or period-appropriate carved gilt frame.