Head of an Old Peasant Woman with White Cap 1884

Vincent van Gogh painted this head of an old peasant woman with a white cap in the late 19th century. The painting offers us a glimpse into the lives of the working class, in an era of significant social change. Van Gogh, deeply empathetic, often turned his attention to those on the margins of society. Here, he captures the dignity and strength etched into the woman's face. Consider the socio-economic context: peasant women often faced lives of relentless labor and hardship. Their stories, often untold, become visible through art. Van Gogh’s choice to portray her head and shoulders against a dark background emphasizes her as an individual, while the white cap symbolizes purity and resilience amidst difficult circumstances. The woman’s gaze, direct and unwavering, invites connection, demanding that we acknowledge her humanity. Van Gogh once said, "I want to paint men and women with that something of the eternal which the halo used to symbolize." Through this painting, he elevates the peasant woman to an iconic figure. She is a testament to the enduring spirit of the working class.