The Red Vineyard (La Vigne Rouge)
Painting on canvas • Vincent van Gogh
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism / Cloisonnism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; heavy impasto technique with rhythmic, directional brushstrokes and vibrant color modulation.
Creation Period
November 1888
Dimensions & Format
75 cm x 93 cm (29.5 in x 36.6 in); Landscape format
Subject Description
A vibrant depiction of grape harvesting near the Abbey of Montmajour in Arles. The composition features workers in a field of fiery red and yellow vines under a setting sun, with a river or pathway reflecting the golden light. It captures the intensity of the Provencal landscape and the labor of the peasants.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; currently housed in a controlled museum environment. Note: The image provided is a digital display (likely a TV or monitor) of the original work.
Estimated Market Value
Inestimable / Priceless (Museum Permanent Collection). If sold, likely exceeding $200 million.
Auction Estimate
$150,000,000 - $300,000,000 (Theoretical)
Provenance History
Purchased by Anna Boch in 1890 for 400 francs; later acquired by Ivan Morozov; nationalized after the Russian Revolution; currently in the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, Moscow.
Art Historical Significance
Famous as the only painting Van Gogh is documented to have sold during his lifetime. It represents the height of his Arles period and his creative dialogue with Paul Gauguin. It is a cornerstone of Post-Impressionist color theory.
Notable Features
Dominated by 'chrome yellow' and 'Prussian blue' contrasts; distinctive circular sun halo; historical status as the 'only sold painting' during the artist's life.
Condition Issues
The original painting has stable craquelure consistent with age and heavy impasto; however, the provided image is a digital reproduction with no physical issues.
Conservation Recommendations
For the original: Maintain strictly controlled humidity and UV protection. For the digital display: calibrate color settings to match the original's warm temperature.