Backyards of Old Houses in Antwerp in the Snow 1885

Vincent van Gogh painted “Backyards of Old Houses in Antwerp in the Snow” during a transient period of his life. He moved to Antwerp in 1885, seeking the camaraderie of his brother Theo and the artistic stimulation of the city. The painting depicts a somber winter scene, devoid of human presence, with a high vantage point that creates a sense of distance. Van Gogh's dark palette and visible brushstrokes convey a sense of alienation and isolation. During this time, he struggled to integrate himself into Antwerp's art scene, which was very conservative, and dealt with personal struggles of poverty and illness. In a letter to Theo, he lamented, “What I am doing is hard, but I don’t want to spare myself.” This intimate view into the backyards of Antwerp’s working-class homes evokes the often unseen realities of urban life. Van Gogh invites us to consider the emotional and social landscapes inhabited by those on the margins of society.