Still Life with Basket and Six Oranges 1888

Vincent van Gogh made this still life of a basket and six oranges using oil on canvas. The thick impasto of the paint gives a tangible quality to everyday objects. Look closely at the basket; the woven texture is replicated through distinct brushstrokes, giving the impression of depth and volume. The oranges too are not simply spheres of color. They are built up from layers of paint, which lends a tactile, almost sculptural presence. Van Gogh's use of materials transforms humble subjects into objects of intense visual interest. The basket, probably made by local craftspeople, speaks to the region's economy, while the imported oranges hint at global trade networks. Van Gogh elevates these ordinary items through his painting process, inviting us to consider their cultural and economic significance. This work challenges the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft, prompting us to appreciate the skill and labor involved in both.