Irises
Painting on canvas • Vincent van Gogh
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, utilizing thick impasto brushstrokes and expressive line work characteristic of Japanese ukiyo-e influence.
Creation Period
May 1889
Dimensions & Format
Original is approximately 71 cm × 93 cm (28 in × 36 3/4 in); Landscape format.
Subject Description
A dense study of purple irises in a garden setting, featuring a single prominent white iris amidst the blue-violet blooms. The composition explores nature's variety and lacks a traditional central focal point, emphasizing organic growth.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
The original is in Excellent museum condition; however, the provided image is a printed reproduction for a puzzle/poster which shows slight warping and surface texture common to industrial printing.
Estimated Market Value
$100 million - $150 million (Estimated for the original masterpiece)
Auction Estimate
$80 million - $120 million (Estimated for the original masterpiece)
Provenance History
Commissioned by the artist's brother Theo; later owned by Julien Tanguy and Octave Mirbeau. Currently held by the J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles.
Art Historical Significance
Painted during Van Gogh's stay at the asylum of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole in Saint-Rémy de Provence. It is one of his most famous and celebrated floral studies, showcasing his emotional use of color.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of heavy outlines, cropped composition influenced by Japanese woodblock prints, and the high-contrast placement of the lone white iris.
Condition Issues
None visible on the original beyond natural aging; the reproduction shows minor edge wear from being part of a larger printed sheet.
Conservation Recommendations
For the original: Climate-controlled environment and low UV lighting. For the reproduction depicted: Standard dry mounting and protective framing.