Newly Identified Vincent van Gogh Drawings Shed Light on His Formative Years
In early 1886, Vincent van Gogh embarked on a transformative journey to Paris, where he immersed himself in the vibrant art scene for two years. During this pivotal period, he produced two previously unknown drawings that offer valuable insights into his artistic evolution.
The Hill of Montmartre with Stone Quarry
One of the newly discovered drawings, titled “The Hill of Montmartre with Stone Quarry,” depicts a panoramic view of the famous Parisian landmark. The sketch showcases van Gogh’s keen observation and his ability to capture the essence of a scene with a few deft strokes.
In 2014, the drawing was acquired by the Van Vlissingen Art Foundation in the Netherlands. Through meticulous research and collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, its authenticity was confirmed. Experts examined the work’s subject matter, style, technique, and documentary evidence, concluding that it was indeed created by van Gogh.
The Hill of Montmartre
The second drawing, simply titled “The Hill of Montmartre,” had previously been included in catalogues of van Gogh’s work but was later removed due to doubts about its origins. However, upon comparing it side-by-side with “The Hill of Montmartre with Stone Quarry,” experts were forced to reconsider. The similarities in materials, paper, and draughtsmanship were undeniable.
Both drawings date to 1886, a time when van Gogh was transitioning from his early, more traditional style to the bold and experimental approach of Impressionism. While in Paris, he encountered influential artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Camille Pissarro, Georges Seurat, and Paul Gauguin, who inspired him to break away from conventions.
Impressionism & Beyond
The two newly identified drawings serve as a “stylistic missing link” between van Gogh’s early work in Belgium and his later, more renowned Impressionist paintings. They reveal the gradual evolution of his style as he embraced the dynamic brushstrokes and vivid colors characteristic of the movement.
Both drawings are currently on display at the Singer Laren museum in the Netherlands as part of the exhibition “Impressionism & Beyond.” This exhibition showcases the pivotal role that Impressionism played in shaping the art of the late 19th century, and van Gogh’s newly discovered drawings provide a fascinating glimpse into this transformative period in his own artistic journey.
Vincent van Gogh’s Formative Years in Paris
The two newly identified drawings offer valuable insights into Vincent van Gogh’s formative years in Paris. They demonstrate his keen observation, his evolving style, and his openness to new artistic influences. These works not only enrich our understanding of van Gogh’s artistic development but also shed light on the vibrant art scene of Paris in the late 19th century.
