A Steamer with Several People 1890

Vincent van Gogh created this untitled graphite drawing of a steamer with several people. Van Gogh came from a deeply religious family and initially wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps as a pastor. He ministered to impoverished mining communities, where he developed a profound empathy for the working class. Looking at this drawing, you can see people in boats, perhaps travelling to or from work, the clothing of the woman to the right, and the steamer itself suggest the impact of industrialization on labor and everyday life. It invites us to consider how people and goods were transported in the 19th century, and the human interactions that took place within these settings. Van Gogh’s work often reflects his deeply felt connection to the human condition. This image offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during a period of significant social and economic change. It reminds us of the shared experiences and struggles that connect us across time.