Still Life with Bloaters and Garlic 1887

Vincent van Gogh created this oil painting, Still Life with Bloaters and Garlic, using traditional methods of painting to create a humble composition. The rich application of paint creates a textured surface, which is particularly noticeable when looking at the three bloaters, a type of smoked herring. Bloaters were a cheap and common food in the 19th century, especially among the working class. Van Gogh himself was known to eat them regularly when he was living in poverty. The garlic, also a staple in many diets, adds to the sense of simplicity and sparseness. This still life diverges from the common still life as it engages with food associated with poverty and laborers instead of riches. Van Gogh is elevating the everyday through the way he has painted this modest meal, so next time you think about what’s on the table, consider the cultural and social histories that have led to its production.