Café Terrace at Night
The image shown is a jigsaw puzzle reproduction of the original oil painting on canvas • Vincent van Gogh
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism / Expressionist roots
Medium & Technique
Original: Oil on canvas using post-impressionist impasto and short, rhythmic brushstrokes. Repro: Printed inks on interlocking cardboard.
Creation Period
Original: September 1888. Puzzle: Contemporary 21st century.
Dimensions & Format
Original: 80.7 cm × 65.3 cm (31.8 in × 25.7 in). Puzzle reproduction: Vertical portrait format.
Subject Description
A vibrant evening scene at the Place du Forum in Arles, France. The composition features a brightly lit yellow café terrace under a deep blue starry sky, contrasted with dark silhouetted buildings and a cobblestone street rendered in rhythmic strokes. It is the first of Van Gogh's paintings to feature a starry sky.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (as a puzzle). The image is fragmented into interlocking pieces but the colors are vibrant and the print quality is clear.
Estimated Market Value
Original: Priceless / over $150,000,000. Puzzle: $15 - $30.
Auction Estimate
Original: Estimate upon request (High 9-figures). Puzzle: Negligible.
Provenance History
Original is housed at the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo, Netherlands. The puzzle is a mass-produced consumer product.
Art Historical Significance
A masterpiece of the Arles period, demonstrating Van Gogh's innovative use of color theory (blue/yellow contrast) and his departure from black pigments to depict night scenes.
Notable Features
Features Van Gogh's signature's 'Starry Night' motifs before the more famous 1889 painting. This reproduction is part of a larger 'Gallery' or 'Museum' themed puzzle series.
Condition Issues
The image is physically Cut into numerous pieces (per puzzle design); some edge wear and visible seam lines between pieces.
Conservation Recommendations
As a puzzle, it is recommended to be glued and mounted if intended for display, away from direct sunlight to prevent UV fading of the inks.