Three Cottages in Saintes-Maries 1888

Vincent van Gogh made this drawing of three cottages in Saintes-Maries using reed pen and ink. Van Gogh arrived in the fishing village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the south of France in 1888. The architecture and environment depicted in the drawing offers a glimpse into the social and cultural context of the time, hinting at the lives of the working class and the rural landscapes that were increasingly becoming subjects of artistic interest. During the late 19th century, there was growing interest in representing everyday life and the working classes in art, influenced by social and political movements. The drawing reflects a shift away from traditional academic subjects towards a more democratic and inclusive representation of society. Art historians use letters, journals, and other archival materials to understand the intentions of the artist. By examining the institutional and social context, we can better appreciate the historical significance of artworks like this one.