Starry Night Over the Rhône 1888

Vincent van Gogh created this oil-on-canvas painting of the Rhône River at night in Arles, France. The image, dominated by blues and yellows, presents a unique perspective on the urban landscape. Rather than highlighting the bustling daytime activities, van Gogh captures the serene, quiet atmosphere of the city at night. The reflection of gas lamps in the river adds a touch of modernity, subtly hinting at the rapid industrial and social changes occurring in Europe at the time. The presence of a couple in the foreground invites viewers to consider the changing social norms around public life and leisure. The intense brushwork and vivid colours, although celebrated today, challenged the academic art institutions of the late 19th century that favored more restrained, realistic styles. To fully appreciate the artwork, one might delve into the artist’s letters and contemporary accounts, connecting the painting to broader cultural shifts in the period.